The ANZAC flags have been raised throughout Gunnedah, as ANZAC Day is soon upon us.
Numerous free events have been organised by dedicated community groups, for everyone to pay tribute to those fallen and those who have offered their lives for our country.

ANZAC Tribute Concert
On the evening of Monday 24th April, the Gunnedah Shire ANZAC Working Group will hold a free community 'ANZAC Tribute Concert' at sunset on Pensioners Hill Lookout.
Gunnedah's award winning Shire Band and artists from the Gunnedah Conservatorium of Music will come together and entertain the audience with music and songs from across the hundred years of ANZAC tradition. Bring a rug or chair, relax and enjoy the delightful sounds whilst watching the sun go down. Feel free to bring a picnic basket or purchase an easy BBQ dinner from Gunnedah West Rotary Club. The Tribute Concert will begin at 5:00 pm and is due to finish by 7:30 pm.
For those who require transport to Pensioners Hill for the performance, please call Gunnedah Shire Council on (02) 67 402 100 and your name will be collected to finalise transport arrangements. A four seater golf-cart will also be available to transport the elderly and those with limited mobility from the car-park to the venue and return.
If the weather prevents the outdoor performance going ahead the concert will move to the Band Hall, in ANZAC Park.

ANZAC Day Dawn Service
On Tuesday 25 April, ANZAC Day, The Gunnedah RSL Sub Branch has organised the official commemorative proceedings for ANZAC Day 2017.
The Dawn Service begins at 5:30 am at the Cenotaph Memorial on Conadilly Street, with Gunnedah Salvation Army Officer, Richard Day, leading the prayers of the ceremony.

ANZAC Day March and Mid-Morning Service
The ANZAC Day March will begin at 10:30 am, proceeding from Marquis Street and will continue down Conadilly Street. The official service begins at 11:00 am at the Cenotaph Memorial on the corner of Elgin Street and Conadilly Street. Official prayers will be led by Anglican Minister, Scott Dunlop.
The assembly point for the march will be the corner of Marquis and Elgin Street, outside Mitre 10 from 10:00 am. The Veterans Cars will be leading the procession at 10:30 am and the official Anzac Day March will proceed following the vehicles.

Gunnedah Watertower Museum
The Gunnedah Watertower Museum is offering free entry into the newly completed Bill Clegg Military Display from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. This is an excellent opportunity to enhance our understanding of Gunnedah’s military and community history.
“Everyone in our community is invited and encouraged to participate in the ANZAC Day ceremonies and events. ANZAC Day is the day we recognise the effects of wartime involvement and the sacrifices of our soldiers, veterans and their families for our country. We hope our community can be united and show our support and pay tribute to our ANZAC’s and the role Service men and Service women have played in defending our nation of the last 103 years” Councillor and Chair of the Gunnedah Shire Council ANZAC Working Group, Owen Hasler said.

ENDS

Media Contact: Eliza Gallen 6740 2100.

Gunnedah Shire Council’s Water Quality Officer, Brock Stone, received two prestigious awards at the 11th Annual NSW Water Industry Operations Conference and Exhibition held by the Water Industry Operators Association’s (WIOA) held in Canberra last week.

The Water Industry Operators Association of Australia (WIOA) is a national Association with a primary role of facilitating the collection, development and exchange of quality information between people undertaking operational roles in the water industry.

Over 700 individuals attended the event, where more than thirty presentations were delivered over two days by engineers, water and wastewater treatment plant operators, scientists and industry representatives.

Attendees discussed a wide range of issues to benefit personnel involved in the operation and maintenance of urban, rural and industrial water related infrastructure. Mr Stone presented his paper entitled ‘Curlewis Pump Station Upgrade.’

His paper was extremely well received and went on to win two awards - ‘Best Paper by an Operator’ and ‘Best Paper Overall’. Best Paper by an Operator is an award offered as an incentive to encourage “grass roots” operational staff to share their knowledge and experience and ‘ Best Paper overall’ is an Open category award with all Platform paper presenters eligible to win, so it is extremely impressive for Mr Stone to win both awards.

“I’d really like to congratulate Brock on his achievements. It’s a significant accomplishment and further displays Brock’s dedication, firstly in completing the pump station upgrade in a professional manner, and then followed by the initiative to prepare a paper and present it to his peers within the industry. The awards were thoroughly deserved and the paper was very well done,” Council’s Manager of Water Services, Kevin Sheridan said.

ENDS

Media Contact: Eliza Gallen 6740 2100.

At the November Council Meeting, Gunnedah Shire Council resolved to offer up to $100,000 funding over twelve months for the Gunnedah Waterways Wildlife Park. The funds were proposed to cover up to $75,000 for the appointment of a Wildlife Park Manager, and up to $25,000 for the accommodation of the manager who would be instituted at the park as part of a strategic plan to improve compliance and enable the park to remain open now and into the future.

The park has been experiencing difficulty for some time and Council has been working closely with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and the Smalls to navigate an outcome that ensures the park will stay open. The DPI is seeking a number of extensive changes to park operations which would be required to ensure compliance with State regulations and to secure the long term viability of the Park.

One of the outcomes being sought by the DPI included the handing over of day-to-day operations of the park which resulted in Council’s offer of assistance to fund a park manager position. Subsequently the Smalls have decided to decline Council’s offer and are now pursuing another option, which involves them directly negotiating terms with the DPI.

“The Gunnedah community have been behind Mr and Mrs Small the whole way. Over the years, they have worked tirelessly and our community has benefitted greatly because of their efforts. I completely understand and respect the right of Nancy and Col to determine the future of their park.

Handing over management of the park would be difficult for anyone in their position. However, the engagement of a Park Manager would seem to be one of the key changes being sought by the DPI, which was the reason Council offered the funding” Gunnedah Shire Council Mayor Jamie Chaffey said.

“The Waterways Wildlife Park, and the volunteers that run it, are assets to our community and I remain supportive as the fight continues to keep the doors open,” he concluded.

ENDS

Media Contact: Eliza Gallen 6740 2100.

RECYCLING COLLECTION - GUNNEDAH
Monday 12 June 2017
Collection will be on Tuesday 13 June 2017.
Residents are requested to place their recycling bins out on Monday evening as collection will begin early on Tuesday.

RECYCLING COLLECTION - CURLEWIS
Monday 12 June 2017
Collection will be on Wednesday 14 June 2017.
Residents are requested to place their recycling bins out on Tuesday evening as collection will begin early on Wednesday.

Should you have any enquiries regarding the Recycling collection over the long weekend period please contact RECYCLIT on 67421522.

THERE WILL BE NO CHANGES TO THE HOUSEHOLD WASTE AND GREENWASTE COLLECTION

Please ensure bins are placed out the night before collection date, as contractors are not obliged to accept late bins. If you have any enquiries regarding these changes please contact Council’s Customer Services Team on 6740 2100

Eric Groth
General Manager

The Gunnedah Shire Destination Management Plan (DMP) provides the direction and framework for taking Shire’s visitor economy forward over the next five years. The primary goal of this Plan is to increase visitor expenditure within the Shire, with resultant economic and social benefits for the Shire community. The visitor economy is a broader concept than the tourism industry, incorporating all businesses and activities that benefit, both directly and indirectly, from money spent by travellers. The visitor economy is recognised as major driver of economic growth, with growth in the visitor economy a strategic priority at both Federal and State Government levels. At the local level, growing the economy of Gunnedah Shire is one Council’s core priorities, with developing the visitor economy being one of the strategies adopted by Council to stimulate economic growth.

It’s time to take stock, see if we are on the right track and update the Gunnedah Shire Community Strategic Plan (CSP). The CSP brings community groups and other tiers of Government together, so we’re all working towards a shared vision for the future of our community.

To tell us what you value about living in Gunnedah and what you would like to improve in the Gunnedah Shire, a community workshop will be held on Monday 3 April 2017 in the Smithurst Theatre commencing 5:30pm to 7:00pm.

This is an opportunity for you to share your priorities and ideas for the Gunnedah Shire, now and into the future.

Enquiries should be directed to our Customer Service Team on 02 6740 2100.

Eric Groth
GENERAL MANAGER

Buckle up Gunnedah, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is hitting the road, and coming to Gunnedah to deliver the freshest and funniest from Australia’s largest comedy festival.

With an all-killer, no-filler cast of Australian stars, talented newcomers and international performers The Melbourne International Comedy Roadshow has got all your comedy bases covered. Featuring everything from; stand-up to sketch, slapstick to song, each individual line-up presents the best of the Festival in one hilarious show.

Last year was just such a hit, the Festival is back by popular demand. A Busload of intrepid entertainers has set their sights on over 80 destinations across this great Southern land and they will be pulling into Gunnedah to make your sides split and your ribs hurt from laughter. Doors Open at 7:00 pm on Thursday the 15th of June, 2017 at the Gunnedah Town Hall with a cash bar and nibbles available on the night.

Don’t miss your chance to join the laughs at the Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow. Get on board, grab your mates and get giggling as the ultimate comedy road trip rolls into town!

Ticket purchases are available online at www.thecivic.com.au (just follow the Book now link) or in person at The Visitor Information Centre, Chandos Street or The Gunnedah Shire Council Administration Building at 63 Elgin Street, Gunnedah. For any enquiries call (02) 67 402 100.

Warning: Performances often contain coarse language, sexual references and material that can offend. It is recommended for people aged 16 years or older.

ENDS

Media Contact: Eliza Gallen 6740 2100.

The Gunnedah Shire ANZAC Working Group have announced that their first ANZAC Commemorative event planned for 2017 is to be an “ANZAC TRIBUTE CONCERT” to be performed on Pensioners Hill on Monday evening , 24th April., ANZAC Day eve.

“We are very pleased that our award winning Gunnedah Shire Band have agreed to combine with artists from the Gunnedah Conservatorium of Music to provide a tribute concert featuring music and songs from across the hundred years of ANZAC tradition,” stated ANZAC Working Group chairman, Clr Owen Hasler.

“We think that this will be a memorable event with some very emotive songs performed with the backdrop of Gunnedah below the audience as the sun sets over the town, ensuring a spectacular scene,” continued Clr Hasler.

“The Shire Band presented many of their tunes during their trip to the Western Front towns of France in 2013 receiving much acclaim and I am sure they will love to perform some of these tunes before a “home” crowd. The Conservatorium artists wooed the guests at last years ‘ The Music Of War and Peacetime” concerts so we believe we are in for another outstanding show.”

The Rotary Club of Gunnedah West will be selling sausage sandwiches and cool drinks during the performance, and people are also encouraged to bring a picnic hamper if they wish.

Limited seating will be supplied so attendees are encouraged to bring their picnic rugs or camping chairs in order to ensure they have a comfortable seat from which to watch the show.

There is limited parking in the area we are hoping to have a small shuttle bus service in operation -with pick up and drop off points yet to be notified. Extra porta loos will be also be provided to assist those with limited mobility.
“I am sure it will be a night to enjoy and remember” Clr Hasler concluded.

Further information about the event including a wet weather plan will be provided over coming weeks.

ENDS

Media Contact: Eliza Gallen 6740 2100.

Youth Week is a national celebration, providing the opportunity for young people to

• share ideas
• attend live events
• have their voices heard on issues of concern to them
• showcase their talents
• celebrate their contribution to the community
• take part in competitions
• meet new people
• and most importantly, have fun!

Gunnedah will be celebrating Youth week in a big way, with many events on offer from 31 March - 7 April 2017. Come and join the fun, there are loads of activities for young people and their families to enjoy.

View the Gunnedah Youth Week 2017 Program below:

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Friday 31 March: Youth Week Launch Party
Time: 6.00pm-8.00pm
Venue: The Civic Theatre

Gunnedah will be launching their Youth Week celebrations with a night of performances and the premiering of the Youth Video Project film - made by and featuring many local young people. This event is free, and features free tacos too! This is an event for the whole family.

Saturday 1 April: Kick, Push, Coast Skate Fest
Time: 12.30pm-5.30pm
Venue: Gunnedah Skate Park

We'll be kicking it old school with All Aboard Skateboarding Sessions, Henna tattooing and the Youth Week Pop-up shop. Listen to some hip hop beats and chill with your friends - what a great way to spend your Saturday!

The youth week pop up shop features products made by our very own yr10 GHS students, who have been spending first term developing entrepreneurial skills. Come down and buy a one of a kind t-shirt, a card for mother’s day, or try a freshly made watermelon juice! Prices range from $2-$40, so bring your wallets and try our wares! All proceeds go to Gunnedah Youth Council.

Tuesday 4 April: Gunnedah Youth Expo
Time: 9.30am-3.30pm
Venue: Gunnedah Town Hall

The 3rd Annual Gunnedah Youth Expo is a FREE event aimed at providing 12-25yr olds and their families an opportunity to access local and state services that can support their wellbeing and life path. It will run from 9.30am-3.30pm. For those coming down in their lunch break, there will be a FREE sausage sizzle, so we have you covered ;-)

Some of the services attending this year include:

• Challenge Community Services
• Department of Human Services
• University of New England
• University of Newcastle
• HNE LHD Clinic 468
• Headspace
• Winanga-li ACFC
• NSW Rural Fire Service
• PCYC
• Gunnedah Shire Library
• Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards
• North & North West Community Legal Service
• Gunnedah Family Support
• Gunnedah Family Support Homebase
• NSW Ombudsman
• Gunnedah Youth Council
• Gunnedah Shire Council Youth Services
• Gunnedah Conservatorium
• Tamworth Regional Youth Centre
• Careers Network Inc.

There are plenty of giveaways, prizes and valuable information to gain. This is an opportunity not to be missed.

Wednesday 5 April: Hump Day Sessions
Time: 5.15pm-6.15pm & 6.45pm-8.30pm
Venue: The Smithurst Theatre

Wednesday 5th April is Hump Day! Hump Day is a fun and positive event focusing on sexual health during NSW Youth Week. This year we will be holding two FREE events in partnership with Clinic 468 to support this important initiative - Parents Info Session & Hump Day 2017!

Parent’s info Session – There will be a clinician and sexual health educator from Clinic 468 to help equip parents with strategies and information to better support their young person’s sexual health. This is a workshop for parents of children of all ages and stages of life. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and seek strategies in a supportive environment.

Hump Day 2017! 15-25yr olds only event - Get a group of friends together and join us for a fun night of games, videos and Q&A sessions around sexual health and consent. We'll even chuck in some free pizza to sweeten the deal and give you something to focus on if you’re blushing due to the subject matter (p.s. you won’t be - it will not be embarrassing at all! :-)

Thursday 6 April: Try-A-Trade
Time: 9.00am-3.00pm
Venue: Gunnedah TAFE

Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce and TAFE New England have teamed up to present Try-a-Trade! This event enables young people to choose from 10 trade skill sets, and gain hands on experience in their trade of choice. They will receive information on job opportunities within the region and course requirements to pursue their trade in the future. Professionals in Gunnedah have been invited along to provide greater insight into the trade areas, to show real life examples and provide information on their own businesses and how they got into their chosen trade. They will act as an additional source of support for the young people on the day. For more information on this event, contact Alysha M: 0409 145 921 E: admin@gunnedah.org.au 

 Friday 7 April: Be Here, Be Heard Youth Art Exhibition Opening & Youth Week $5 Movie: Boyhood
Time: 6.00pm-10.00pm
Venue: Creative Arts Gallery & The Civic Theatre

Gunnedah Shire's young artists will have their talents on display, as we conclude Gunnedah Youth Week with our ‘Be Here, Be Heard’ Youth Art Exhibition opening.

Parents and young people are invited to stay on for our Youth Week $5 Movie:

Boyhood (rated M).
Boyhood is a multi-award winning film that was shot with the same cast over 12 years.
Boyhood is a 2014 American coming-of-age drama film, written and directed by Richard Linklater, and starring Patricia Arquette, Ellar Coltrane, Lorelei Linklater, and Ethan Hawke. Filmed from 2002 to 2013, Boyhood depicts the childhood and adolescence of Mason Evans, Jr. (Coltrane) from ages six to eighteen as he grows up in Texas with divorced parents (Arquette and Hawke).

For more information on Youth Week 2017, please contact Sewa on 6740 2100 or council@infogunnedah.com.au 

SEE YOU IN YOUTH WEEK!

ENDS

Media Contact: Eliza Gallen 6740 2100.

At the November Council Meeting, Gunnedah Shire Council resolved to offer up to $100,000 funding over twelve months for the Gunnedah Waterways Wildlife Park. The funds are proposed to cover up to $75,000 for the appointment of a Wildlife Park Manager, and up to $25,000 for the accommodation of the manager who will be instituted at the park as part of a strategic plan to improve compliance and enable the park to remain open now and into the future.

The park has been experiencing difficulty for some time and Council has been working closely with the DPI and the Smalls to navigate an outcome to ensure the park stays open. Friends of the Wildlife Park will meet with representatives from Council, Featherdale Wildlife Park and the DPI on Monday evening to discuss logistics and determine how the park will operate under the new structure.

“This is such a great outcome. The Smalls, along with Friends of the Wildlife Park have done a wonderful job of providing this facility for the community for many years. It really is such an asset to our community- from both an educational and tourism standpoint. We are very pleased that Council can work together with Nancy and Col and the DPI, so that the Park will remain open for future generations to enjoy.” Gunnedah Shire Council Mayor Jamie Chaffey said.

“We are pleased to be working collectively with Nancy and Colin Small, Friends of Waterways Wildlife Park Inc., Featherdale Wildlife Park, and Gunnedah Shire Council in an effort to ensure the viability of the Park into the future” said Peter Day, Director, Biosecurity and & Food Safety Compliance, Department Primary Industries NSW.

ENDS

Media Contact: Eliza Gallen 6740 2100.