Gunnedah Shire Council is continuing to undertake vital upgrades and improvements to the Gunnedah Showgrounds.

Council’s successful applications under the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment Showground Stimulus Funding Program has funded projects including storm water drainage; demolition of a stable block; upgrade of balustrade and railings on the main grandstand; and at the Griffiths Pavilion renovations to the kitchen, installation of six whirly-bird roof vents, and external lighting.

Council was successful with a second round of the funding under this program for an additional $136,923.60.  This has enabled Council to also make improvements to the internal showground road, including the installation of kerb and gutter, internal street lighting and the sealing of the remaining section of road.

Council crews have been carrying out this work over the last few weeks and sealing the remainder of the internal road was completed this week.

Council’s Director Infrastructure Services Jeremy Bartlett said the projects were identified from the Showground Masterplan and a priority list was created after further user-group consultation.

“Working together with the user groups to identify and prioritise upgrade projects at the Gunnedah Showground was an important part of the process when applying for the grant,” Mr Bartlett said.

“We have nearly finalised all projects funded under the Stimulus Program, with the most recent completed being the sealing of the remainder of the internal road. This project was ranked highly in the feedback from the Showground User groups and it is great to see it completed.”

Other improvements over the past few years, made possible through government funding have included new rodeo and camp draft arenas, new grandstand seating, a new amenities and shower block, and the refurbishment of existing amenities blocks.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said the Gunnedah Showground is a fantastic facility for the Gunnedah Shire.  It hosts numerous local events, including the Gunnedah Show, Bird Expo, Gunnedah Showjumping Festival, Country Music Muster, Gunnedah Campdraft, and the Spring Rose Show, to name a few.

“The Showgrounds are also starting to attract more regional events. This year, the Gunnedah Pony Club will host the Zone Jamboree and Off the Track NSW will return again for its Championship Show.

“Our recently adopted Economic Development Strategy lists tourism as an opportunity for our Shire, event attraction is a great way of creating more economic diversity to grow our local economy and bring more visitors into town,” Cr Chaffey said.

These upgrades will assist with the attraction of more regional events to the Showground, while also providing valuable improvements to this important community asset for local user groups to enjoy.

Caption: The works to the showground internal work is now complete.

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For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s media team on (02) 6740 2100.

5 May, 2022

Gunnedah Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery is calling for submissions for the annual NAIDOC Week Art Exhibition.

The exhibition will open on July 8 during NAIDOC Week (July 3-10), headlining this year’s theme – “Get up! Stand up! Show up!”.

The gallery is urging artists, hobbyists, schools, organisations and individuals to come together and explore the theme and exhibit their artworks in a professional gallery space.

“The NAIDOC Week exhibition provides the ideal opportunity to celebrate the depth and vibrancy of Indigenous culture in our region,” Gunnedah Shire Council’s Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said.

“This exhibition is a space to share valuable stories of culture and identity, to start conversations and enrich understanding.

“It’s always exciting to see a vast array of artworks from throughout our community and I’m looking forward to seeing the display of creativity in the gallery.”

All artworks must be ready to hang, and be submitted to the Gunnedah Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery by 5pm on Monday, July 4, 2022.

The exhibition will officially open at 6pm on Friday, July 8, 2022 and will continue until Friday, August 5, 2022.

For more information or for an entry form, visit www.thecivic.com.au or www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au, or contact Council’s Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley on (02) 6740 2100 or council@infogunnedah.com.au.

Caption: The annual art exhibition is a key element of Gunnedah Shire’s NAIDOC Week celebrations.

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For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s media team on (02) 6740 2100.

4 May, 2022

Gunnedah Shire Council’s annual Arts and Cultural Grants Fund is now open for applications.

Council’s Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said the program aimed to help community groups deliver existing projects and to support new projects and initiatives that help meet the needs of the growing community, while strengthening cultural identity and connection to place.

“Gunnedah Shire Council is one of the few Councils in NSW that provides funding for arts and cultural programs, projects and events,” Ms Mackley said.

“It has been a tough couple of years for creative industries, and these grants are a great way to gather strength and enthusiasm for the year ahead. Gunnedah has a vibrant arts and cultural sector and we would like to see this continue to flourish.”

Past successful applications have included cultural workshops, concerts, exhibitions, media equipment and markets.

The arts and cultural project, program or event must align with the following general arts categories:

• Acting;
• Announcing;
• Fine art and craft;
• Directing;
• Animation;
• Dancing and choreography;
• Entertainment and performance;
• Music and singing;
• Photography;
• Production, and;
•  Wrting.

Arts and cultural groups can find application forms and information at www.thecivic.com.au or https://www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au/index.php/community/community-services/grants-sponsorship/item/1401-section-356-arts-and-cultural-grants.

Applications close at 5pm, on Friday, 17 June, 2022.

For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council on (02) 6740 2100 or council@infogunnedah.com.au.

Caption: Gunnedah Shire Council’s Arts and Cultural Grants Fund kick-starts new projects and initiatives that help meet the needs of the growing community, while strengthening cultural identity and connection to place.

ENDS

For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s media team on (02) 6740 2100.

4 May, 2022

Work will begin soon on a new Orange Grove Bridge following the demolition of the damaged existing bridge in the next week.

In March 2021, Gunnedah Shire Council was allocated funding through the NSW Fixing Country Bridges Program funding and the Federal Bridge Renewal Program to replace the bridge at a cost of about $1.2 million. The remainder will be met by Gunnedah Shire Council.

Council was forced to close the bridge to traffic in January this year after vandals set fire to the timber foundations and caused significant structural damage.

Council Director Infrastructure Services Jeremy Bartlett said work had been scheduled as soon as possible taking into account the variable river flow for irrigation and other purposes from nearby Lake Keepit.

“I’m pleased to be able to announce that work is about to get underway on a new bridge,” Mr Bartlett said.

“We know the closure has been a major inconvenience for residents, but the damage to the bridge by vandals left us with no choice. We had been able to open the bridge for pedestrian access but that will no longer be possible once the bridge has been demolished.

“We have engaged with local bus companies to make alternate arrangements for their services.

“Council has awarded a tender in July 2021 for the design and construction of the replacement bridge, and work is expected to start following the demolition. The new bridge is expected to be open to traffic before the end of 2022.

“The old bridge has served us well since it was constructed in the 1920s. It is great to see work commencing to work towards a solution for residents and users of the Orange Grove road.”

Caption: Orange Grove Bridge is ready for demolition ahead of construction of the new bridge.

ENDS

For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s media team on (02) 6740 2100.

3 May, 2022

The first round of the Business Partner Program 2022 has opened, giving Gunnedah’s new and existing businesses an opportunity to kick-start their ideas.

The program has assisted many Gunnedah Shire businesses and organisations to expand operations, launch new initiatives, or upgrade key infrastructure.

“The Business Partner Program is a great opportunity for businesses to get new projects off the ground and realise their ideas,” Gunnedah Shire Council Director Planning and Environmental Services Andrew Johns said.

“The Gunnedah Shire has a diverse range of businesses, and the Business Partner Program is just one way Council is continuing to support the active business community.

“The program has funded everything from renovations to branding to start-up costs for veterinary clinics, landscaping businesses, real estates, pubs and printeries, among many others.

“I encourage businesses and organisations who are ready to grow, or who have a new initiative that will lead to a stronger economy and employment, to submit an Expression of Interest.”

Expressions of Interest for the latest round of the Business Partner Program will close on Monday, 30 June, 2022.

For guidelines and more information, visit: https://www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au/index.php/business/business-support/business-grants-funding/item/959-business-partner-program

Caption: The previous round of Council’s Business Partner Program included 10 projects, ranging from a new electrical business start-up, to expansion of boarding kennels.

ENDS

For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s media team on (02) 6740 2100.

29 April, 2022

Live children’s theatre is returning to The Civic on Monday, May 16.

Beep, a Windmill Theatre Company Production, is a slightly sideways tale about unexpected friendship, finding where you fit and learning to mix it up a little.

In Mort’s Village everything has its place, every day is the same and everyone likes it that way. Until one morning, crash, boom, bang… down comes Beep.  What is this annoying interruption to Mort’s breakfast molly melon? Who is this noisy robot girl, and how will she find her home? With Windmill’s trademark design, gentle storytelling, music and puppetry, Beep tells the story of what happens when someone new comes to town.

The theatre production is aimed at children aged 2-7 years and runs for about 35 minutes.

Gunnedah Shire Council Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said it was fantastic to see live theatre returning to Gunnedah.

“This is a great opportunity for kids to watch live theatre in their own town. If you’ve never taken your kids to a live production, this is a great place to start,” she said.

“This production has been described as a ‘tender tale of friendship for the whole family’, so come along and enjoy this wonderful story in our very own theatre.

“Tickets are selling fast, so please book your tickets early, so you don’t miss out.”

Beep is coming to The Civic on May 16. Doors open at 1pm and the show starts at 1.30pm. Tickets from $15.00 or a group booking of 10+ is $10 per person.

Dine and Discover vouchers can be used when purchasing tickets, but only in person at The Civic, 81 Chandos Street, Gunnedah.  

To book at the Civic website: https://AUGSC.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/13115

Caption: A live theatre production, Beep, is coming to The Civic on Monday, May 16.

ENDS

For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s media team on (02) 6740 2100.

28 April, 2022

Discover the stories hidden within the art of James White at the Gunnedah Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery in May.

The former Boggabri man will launch a new exhibition, “Memories”, on 27 May, and the local community is invited to walk down memory lane and embrace the nostalgic.

Mr White grew up on a family farm, but left the paddocks behind to travel the wider world, and it’s this collective imagery, and the memories, that inspire his watercolour works. He is a long time member of The Australian Watercolour Institute.   

Gunnedah Shire Council Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said Mr White’s exhibition invokes a strong sense of belonging and home.

“Memories can be so powerful and tangible. A certain scent or sight can take you back to a different time and incite strong feelings. James’ exhibition does just that,” Ms Mackley said.

Ms Mackley said his works also possesses a touch of playfulness – a gnome is hidden in each art work.

“Come along and see if you can find it,” she said.

“Memories” will open at 6pm on Friday, 27 May, 2022 at the Gunnedah Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery.

Light refreshments will be provided by the Gunnedah Red Cross. The exhibition will be on display until 3pm on Sunday, 3 July, 2022.

Caption: Former Boggabri man James White will exhibit a collection of works titled “Memories” at the Gunnedah Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery in May. Grannie’s Tablecloth’ is just one of James White’s many works that are inspired by his childhood.

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For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s media team on (02) 6740 2100.

22 April, 2022

Flood Recovery Costs

A report exploring options for the waiving of user fees and charges for the disposal of household items in declared disaster events will be prepared for a future Council meeting.

The notice of motion was put forward by Cr Ann Luke “after seeing all the heartache” due to flooding events. It was supported by her fellow councillors.

Cr Luke said it was a logical step to ensure Council could be more responsive in its efforts to support the community recovering from times of crises.

Previously, waiving of these user fees and charges required a resolution of Council each time it needed to be done.

“I would like to support this resolution so we have in place all the things we need when there is an emergency,” Cr Luke said.

Off-leash Dog Area

Council has resolved to prepare a report on the feasibility of making the Woolshed Reserve a fenced off-leash dog area.

The notice of motion was put forward by Cr Ann Luke who said she was passionate about establishing a space for dog owners in Gunnedah.

The report will outline options and costings for a fenced off-leash area for the consideration of Council.

Working Group Memberships

Council has resolved to endorse the following new members for Council’s working groups.

Cr Juliana McArthur, Cr Robert Hoddle and Cr Murray O’Keefe will join the Section 356 Arts and Cultural Small Grants Working Group.

Council endorsed Helen Lickorish as the fourth community representative in the Gunnedah Shire Council Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group.

Cr Kate McGrath, Cr Robert Hooke and Cr David Moses will join the Section 356 Community and Sports Small Grants Working Group.

Council endorsed Lindsay Sheedy, Bruce Hockings, Simon Gainsford and Treena Daniells as community representatives for the Business Partner Program Advisory Group.

Council endorsed the appointment of the following members for the Crime Prevention Working Group: Gunnedah Police Inspector Michael Wurth, Gail Paddison (Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce), Jess Blair (Gunnedah PCYC), Joy Wilson (Homes North Community Housing), Vanessa Hodges – Schembri (Gunnedah Family Support), Gunida Gunyah Aboriginal Corporation, Joshua Launders, Kath Wilkinson, John Harford,  Caitlin Woodgate – Etherington, and Raelee Bruce. Two youth positions remain vacant and Council will continue to seek appropriate members to fill them.

Council endorsed the following members for the Access Working Group: Peter Jones (Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce), Ingrid Allen-Thomas (GoCo Community Care), Bec Maybury (GS Kidd Memorial School), Corenna Doolan,  Lyndal Riordan and Amanda Cooper. Two community positions remain vacant but ongoing efforts will be made to fill the positions.

Council endorsed the following members for the Economic Development Working Group:  Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce representative Initra Larsen and community representatives Kate Gunn, Tracey Reid, Scott Ford, Glenn Many, and Richard Patriquin. Gunnedah and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry will reassign one remaining vacant position and advise Council. The working group is in hiatus until the position of Economic Development Manager is filled.

Council endorses the following members for the Skills and Training Working Group:

• Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce Representatives: Paul O’Donnell and Susan Frater-Sims.
• Business Representative, Medium Size Business Representative: Michael Broekman.
• Educational and Training Based Representatives: Alison Heagney (Gunnedah Community College), Emily McInerney (Acting Principal Gunnedah High School) and David Carter (Carinya Christian School).

Positions for Large Business Representative, Small Size Business Representative and TAFE Representatives remain vacant. The working group is in hiatus due to staffing, but it is anticipated that meetings for the Skills and Training Working Group will convene in the near future.

Caption: Council will prepare a report on the feasibility of making the Woolshed Reserve a fenced off-leash dog area.

ENDS

For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s media team on (02) 6740 2100.

21 April, 2022

The truck wash at Gunnedah Saleyards will be closed from Tuesday, May 3, for the construction phase of the precinct upgrade.

The closure is due to the renewal of the truck wash that is part of the saleyards upgrade, which will deliver a new state-of-the-art truck wash facility. The current facility will be closed for up to 20 weeks.

An alternate site was considered for the duration of the construction period, however, due to the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) licence requirements and the truck wash’s proximity to a flood plain, a Gunnedah Shire Council spokesperson said there was not a feasible solution.

“The decision to close the truck wash was not made lightly,” the spokesperson said.

“Consultation has taken place with the Gunnedah Stock and Station Agents Association (GSSA) and transport operators as the project has progressed.

“An opening date for the new truck wash will be announced when it has been confirmed by the contractor.”

Caption: Gunnedah Saleyards will undergo a major upgrade.

ENDS

For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s media team on (02) 6740 2100.

April 21, 2022

In a submission to the NSW Country Mayors’ Association, Gunnedah Shire Council has identified its top five areas of concern.

Gunnedah Mayor Jamie Chaffey told Councillors at the April Ordinary Council meeting that the Executive of the NSW Country Mayors’ Association, of which he is the Deputy Chair, were encouraging member councils to submit motions on priority issues.

The association’s survey of councils in December 2020 found the top three single issues for councils were water security, access to health services and financial assistance grants, but the association acknowledged it was time to review the findings.

Cr Chaffey said like any other region, Gunnedah faced a number of issues.

“While we recognise there are many challenges within the Shire, our community knows where we need help, and the most important challenge we continue to face is access to health services,” he said.

“We have had a doctor to resident ratio of 1:3000 and a local hospital where the facilities are not up to the standard we need. While we have seen a recent improvement in doctor numbers, we continue to work with health professionals to come up with practical and sustainable solutions and to keep the pressure on the state and federal governments for improvement in this area.

“Our other priorities are housing, skills and education, crime levels and cost shifting.

“We have a lack of residential housing, a lack of vocational education and training courses, a dramatic increase in crime, and determinations by the state government in recent years that have put a financial burden on Council without financial reward.

“We intend to keep the focus on these areas of need and help find solutions for our community.”

Cr Chaffey said the information would be gathered and assessed for top concerns across regional and rural New South Wales to inform the position and priorities of the NSW Country Mayor’s Association for the next 12 months.

The submission was presented in a Mayoral Minute to Gunnedah Shire Council that was adopted this week.

Caption: Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey says the most important challenge the Shire continues to face is access to health services.

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For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s media team on (02) 6740 2100.