4 April 2018

Motorists and residents are advised of temporary road closures within Gunnedah Shire associated with Anzac Day Parades on Wednesday, 25 April 2018 as follows:

GUNNEDAH: 5.00am–6.00am

• Elgin Street from McDonalds’ Driveway to the carpark adjacent to the Council offices
• Conadilly Street from Abbott Street to the mid-block pedestrian crossing in Conadilly Street between Elgin and Marquis Streets

CURLEWIS: 5.00am–6.00am

• Part intersection of Pike and Goran Streets, Curlewis
• Northern (top) side of Goran Street from Brown Street to Railway Street

GUNNEDAH: 10.00am–12.00noon

• Conadilly Street between Marquis Street and Abbott Street
• Marquis Street between Conadilly Street and Little Conadilly Street
• Elgin Street between Conadilly Street and McDonalds’ driveway
• Conadilly Street from Marquis Street to Tempest Street
• Chandos Street from Conadilly Street to Little Barber Street
• Chandos Street from Conadilly Street to Little Conadilly Street

CURLEWIS: 8.15am-12noon

• Northern (top) side of Goran Street between Railway Street and Brown Street
• Pike Street between Donaldson Street and Goran Street and
• A small section of Railway Street adjacent to the Hotel

Should you have any questions relating to the changed conditions please contact Council’s Customer Service Team on (02) 6740 2100 or email council@infogunnedah.com.au 

We apologise for any inconvenience experienced during this time and thank you for your co-operation.

Eric Groth
General Manager

28 March 2018

Dementia risk reduction and its impacts will be at the forefront of a ‘Healthy Brain Ageing’ information session to be held at the Gunnedah Shire Library.

The workshop will be hosted by Dementia Australia on Thursday, 5 April from 12.00pm to 1.30pm and aims to address the myths surrounding dementia and provides information relating to normal ageing and memory loss.

Topics include: The nature of dementia; the impact of dementia on the person and their carer; effective communications and activities; and five simple steps to maximise brain health. The course is suitable for family, carers and friends who are involved in the care or support of a person with dementia, and anyone who is interested in learning more about dementia and dementia risk reduction.

Gunnedah Shire Librarian Christiane Birkett said it is important to raise awareness and an understanding of various needs in the community.

“Introducing programs such as ‘Brain Games’ at the Library has been successful for us in promoting an age and dementia-friendly environment. I would encourage other services and organisations to attend this session as well and to look at their programs and make them accessible if needed,” Ms Birkett said.

“It is important that people have the right information when it comes to supporting a person with dementia.”

For more information on the information session contact Helen Stanley at Dementia Australia on 0427 669 836 or helen.stanley@dementia.org.au 

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.

29 March 2018

Gunnedah has further strengthened its ties with direct links to China after a successful trade and investment mission earlier this month.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey and Gunnedah Shire Council’s General Manager Eric Groth joined a delegation of representatives from Namoi Unlimited on the 15-day trade and investment tour of China.

St Mary’s College Principal Max Quirk joined the Council representatives to discuss student and teacher exchange opportunities with Gunnedah’s Sister City, Yinzhou.

Cr Chaffey said the group met with the principal and government officials associated with the Yinzhou Experimental Middle School to propose an annual program that would allow for cultural and social advancement for both areas.

“We toured the school to investigate the opportunities for exchange programs that will enhance both cultures and will support St Mary’s students in learning Chinese culture and Mandarin. The details are yet to be determined, however, there is a clear desire to establish a partnership between the schools and both governments associated,” Cr Chaffey said.

Following a Sister City arrangement signed in 2017 with Yinzhou Government, a symbolic ceremony was held in the Yinzhou Park in China with an official tree planting and unveiling of a memorial plaque to signify the relationship between the two areas.

“The ceremony was attended by several hundred people and is a true indication of the seriousness and intent that both governments have to see our newly established relationship succeed,” Cr Chaffey said.

Namoi Unlimited representatives delivered seminars for trade and investment options to more than 300 individuals representing private or state-owned enterprises, and trading companies at Guangzhou, Ningbo and Shanghai. The seminars were held in conjunction with government agencies such as NSW Trade and Investment teams from Shanghai and Guangzhou, Department of Primary Industries International Engagement and AusTrade, as well as supported by Chamber of Commerce representatives and other government officials from throughout China.

“During the seminars, Namoi Unlimited Chair Andrew Hope gave a description of our region and spoke of the collaborative nature of which all of our Councils work together for the promotion and support of industry, business and community throughout our region,” Cr Chaffey said.

“I was very proud at all venues to give a brief introduction to the Gunnedah Shire, detailing not only the size, scale and capacity, but also to demonstrate that we are willing to share our trade and investment opportunities internationally on our terms.

“I had the opportunity to highlight the strength and wide range of agricultural products that we produce and spoke in some detail about the processing industry that already exists and how local businesses are already successfully exporting into the Chinese marketplace,” he said.

The main project put forward by Gunnedah Shire Council at the seminars was the opportunity for investment in a multi-species abattoir in Gunnedah.

“We have already received expressions of interest from regional and domestic enterprises, but now we are looking for the final investment required from a well-established end user. To ensure the longevity of a grand scale project such as this abattoir, investment from within the supply chain would be ideal. I was very encouraged by the interest shown in this project and the others presented,” Cr Chaffey said.

“There is a high demand for Australian beef by Chinese consumers, so that puts our project in a good position and fostering those trade and investment connections through these delegations is very important to attract international interest.”

Namoi Unlimited signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ningbo Agricultural Bureau with aims to focus efforts on this particular area of China.

“This means working closer with an area of China that has a population of 7.4 million, is home to the biggest seaport in China, is the second biggest city in its province and is only two hours from Shanghai. This is a good outcome for Gunnedah considering our Sister City is one of 10 governments governed by Ningbo Municipal,” Cr Chaffey said.

“We have so much potential and this recent initiative was a great opportunity for Gunnedah to further expand the great work that has been done already. It will open doors for jobs well into the future for our community.”

Gunnedah Shire Council is expecting many return delegations throughout the year to showcase the trade and investment opportunities the Namoi region has to offer, with Ag Quip generating much interest - as Australia is seen to be a leader in innovative agricultural technology and equipment.

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.

28 March 2018

Entertainer Chris Cook believes the single most significant influence on his musical development is Slim Dusty.

Gunnedah Shire Council brings Chris Cook’s Dustier Than Ever – Slim Dusty Tribute Concert to the Gunnedah Town Hall on April 15 from 3.00pm.

Chris saw Slim Dusty in concert 10 times and vividly remembers the first time when he was about nine-years-old at Coffs Harbour Civic Centre. Chris boasts quite the collection of Slim Dusty records and could be touted as one of Slim Dusty’s greatest fans. After meeting Slim for the first time in 1977, Chris met up with Slim again at Mataranka in the Northern Territory about 23 years ago, where they went fishing on the Roper River. A firm friendship was established between them which remained strong for the last 12 years of Slim’s life.

Slim Dusty recorded three of Chris Cook’s songs – When the Country’s Wet, Diggin’ a Hole in my Guitar and Rollin’ Down the Road.

Chris plays energetic country guitar, skillful and toe-tapping fiddle and highly polished bluegrass/hillbilly banjo. He has a huge repertoire of songs and has said he possesses a “lifetime of songs in his head”.

Drawing on Australian country and American bluegrass roots, the singer and multi-instrumentalist has engaged audiences and performed for over 35 years. He is backed by Robert Renfrew on double bass and Jamie Cantwell on drums and percussion.

“For Slim Dusty and country fans alike, this is a show not to be missed. Chris’ infectious vitality, distinctive and inimitable style and musical competence will ensure an entertaining and enjoyable show,” Gunnedah Shire Council Arts and Cultural Officer Lauren Mackley said.

Tickets are $30 adult and $25 concession and are available at www.thecivic.com.au or in person at Gunnedah Shire Council Administration Building, Elgin Street or Visitor Information Centre, Chandos Street.

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.

22 March 2018

Gunnedah Shire Council has resolved to allocate a further $110,000 to the Gunnedah Memorial Pool Renewal Project for additional remediation works and storm water drainage works at an Extraordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday.

Gunnedah Shire Council’s Contract Project Manager Mike Silver said demolition of the former main pavilion highlighted that structural elements of the old basement had deteriorated more than expected, resulting in the need for further remediation works.

“The construction plan provides for the new pavilion to be constructed over the existing basement section of the original pavilion,” Mr Silver said.

“Demolition work has revealed the need for additional remediation works on that area to ensure the structural capability of the new pavilion is not compromised.

“Despite the need for additional remediation works, the retention of the basement is the most cost-effective method to provide the base footprint for the new pavilion. Complete demolition of the basement section and subsequent rebuilding would have been an extremely expensive exercise.

“Adjustments to the storm water drainage system around the pool complex will also be addressed in the funding allocation to ensure the effective operation of the system,” he said.

“This is a multi-million dollar project that will have an operational life of at least 60 years. It will be a huge benefit to the Gunnedah community, so Council needs to make sure it gets it right.”

Construction of the new 50 metre pool is progressing on schedule with the last floor slab poured earlier in the week and installation of Peri Wall formwork shutters for the deep end high wall are well advanced.

“Work on the site will focus on completing the 50 metre pool walls and bringing the new pavilion building to floor level over the next month,” Mr Silver said.

A further $35,000 will be drawn from the Gunnedah Water Fund to relocate the overflow from the South Street water supply reservoir that previously cycled through the pool storm water drainage system.

Photo 1: Further remediation works are required for the original basement area of the former pavilion.

Photo 2: Formwork shutters are being installed in the new outdoor 50 metre pool after the final slab was poured.

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.

21 March 2018

Gunnedah Shire Council staff and Councillors saw first-hand the challenges people with mobility issues face, when navigating their way through the CBD on Tuesday.

Council’s Access Working Group conducted an Access Awareness Activity for staff involved with planning and infrastructure design, as well as Councillors, using a range of mobility and vision aids, including goggles, blindfolds, canes, crutches and wheelchairs.

The activity was held to raise awareness of accessibility, in conjunction with Guide Dogs NSW/ACT and House With No Steps. It supports Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017-2021 and long-term goals for enhancing access and cultivating inclusion throughout the Shire.

Director Planning and Environmental Services Andrew Johns was among the senior staff taking part in the initiative.

“It really was quite scary trying to navigate the CBD blindfolded. As someone acutely aware of the importance of equity in access, the experience has reinforced my resolve to keep access a high priority,” Mr Johns said.

“I would encourage anyone in our community with concerns about their ability to navigate our streets due to Council infrastructure or footpath obstruction issues to bring these concerns to Council’s attention.

“It is important for business owners to realise that there are rules in place around footpath obstructions and they are there to protect pedestrians. If anyone is unsure about these rules, I would encourage them to visit Council and speak with one of the duty Town Planners, who will be able to assist.”

Council’s Community and Social Planner Debra Hilton said the activity “hit home” with participants.

“We held a debrief at the end of the activity and it was encouraging to see staff and Councillors reactions and to hear how the experience provided them with a valuable insight into the importance of accessible infrastructure design,” Ms Hilton said.

“It was a positive experience and has put accessibility at the forefront for staff who deal with planning or infrastructure designs on a daily basis.”

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.

Applications for 2024-25 Round 2 are open. Closing date is Friday, 22 November 2024.

Each year Gunnedah Shire Council delivers the Section 356 (Arts and Cultural) Small Grants Program in the Shire. The aim of the Program is to enhance local cultural opportunities and experiences and to build the capacity of local arts and cultural organisations to produce programs, project or events that reflect and enrich aspects of Gunnedah’s cultural identity.

Applications under the Section 356 (Arts and Cultural) Small Grants Program must align with any of the following general categories:

• Acting;
• Announcing;
• Craft making;
• Directing;
• Animation;
• Dancing and choreography;
• Entertainment and performance;
• Music and singing;
• Printmaking;
• Photography;
• Production, and;
• Writing.
  
  

Application - S356 Arts and Cultural Small Grants -2024-2025.pdf

Guidelines - S356 Arts and Cultural Small Grants Guidelines.pdf

Declaration of Expenditure -S356_Arts and Cultural Grant 2024-2025.pdf

For more information on the next 2024-25 round, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s Cultural Precinct Team Leader on (02) 6740 2100 or email council@gunnedah.nsw.gov.au.

19 March 2018

Youth Week is a national celebration, providing the opportunity for young people to share ideas, attend live events, have their voices heard, showcase their talents, celebrate their contributions, to meet new people and to have fun.

Gunnedah Youth Council (GYC) has a jam-packed program of events for Youth Week 2018 (April 9-21), targeted at young people aged 12-25.

All Youth Week events are drug and alcohol free. View the full Gunnedah Youth Week 2018 Program here.

To secure a spot in any of the events, visit www.thecivic.com.au or phone Gunnedah Shire Council on (02) 6740 2100. Bookings are open from Friday, 23 March, 2018.

For more information contact Council’s Youth Development Officer Sewa Emojong on (02) 6740 2100 or council@infogunnedah.com.au

19 March 2018

 Youth Week is a national celebration, providing the opportunity for young people to share ideas, attend live events, have their voices heard, showcase their talents, celebrate their contributions, to meet new people and to have fun.

Gunnedah Youth Council (GYC) has a jam-packed program of events for Youth Week 2018 (April 9-21), targeted at young people aged 12-25.

Gunnedah Shire Council’s Youth Development Officer Sewa Emojong said Youth Week is a time to recognise the valuable contribution young people make to the community.

“Youth Week is the perfect opportunity to celebrate and show support for our Shire’s young people. GYC, supported by Gunnedah Shire Council, has put a lot of work into this year’s program of events,” Ms Emojong said.

The 2018 Youth Week theme is ‘Unity through Diversity’.

“This year’s theme allows us to celebrate the strength in our differences, and the fact that the uniqueness and successes of our region are based on the diversity of our people and a unified approach,” Ms Emojong said.

“Today’s young people are our future and we have the opportunity to provide them with the platforms, tools, support and inspiration to help them grow.”

Youth Week Gunnedah 2018 kicks off with anti-bullying and social media awareness workshops at a number of local schools. A Youth Movie Night will be held in Curlewis on Thursday, 12 April from 6.00pm at the Youth Hall, Curlewis Church. An inter-school debate between Gunnedah High School and St Mary’s College students will take place on Thursday, 12 April in the St Xavier’s School Hall from 6.00pm to 8.00pm.

A highlight of the program is the 4th Annual Gunnedah Youth Expo – a free event for youth and their parents, featuring stalls, workshops and access to local services for information on a variety of topics including careers, tertiary education, Legal Aid, Fair Trading, mental and sexual health, drugs and alcohol, homelessness and family violence. The expo will be held at Wolseley Park and The Civic from 10.00am to 2.00pm on 10 April.

A new addition to the program - Gunnedah Youth Council is setting up a headquarters at the Gunnedah Show on Saturday, 14 April, featuring Just Dance tournaments, promotions, giveaways and information stalls. GYC Youth Week HQ will open from 10.00am to 5.00pm in the North Power Shed (opposite Griffiths Pavilion).

‘Beats, Bass and Basketball’ on Wednesday, 18 April, will be held in conjunction with Youth Homelessness Awareness Day and NSW Youth Week Hump Day, and will feature a live DJ, basketball competition and information stalls.

Flower crowned performer, Goldheist, will headline at the Friday Fun Fest on April 20 at Kitchener Oval from 5.00pm to 10.00pm. The singer songwriter is known for bringing her songs and stories to stages across regional Australia for drought relief. Friday Fun Fest will also host novelty sports competitions, bubble soccer, a canteen, more live music from Gunnedah Conservatorium students, an outdoor movie and short film showcase.

Throughout the week, young people can also register for barista skills workshops, an excursion to Tamworth including laser tag and a visit to The Youthie, a Safer Driver Course, and a CPR Course.

The action-packed week will end with a concert featuring Iron and Clay, in the Gunnedah Town Hall on April 21 from 7.30pm-9.00pm. Iron and Clay are a ministry/motivational band that travel across Australia to inspire and influence young people.

All Youth Week events are drug and alcohol free. View the full Gunnedah Youth Week 2018 Program here.

To secure a spot in any of the events, visit www.thecivic.com.au or phone Gunnedah Shire Council on (02) 6740 2100. Bookings are open from Friday, 23 March, 2018.

For more information contact Council’s Youth Development Officer Sewa Emojong on (02) 6740 2100 or council@infogunnedah.com.au 

Photo: Gunnedah Youth Council members Bodie Crawford, Jackson Jarvis, Thomas Bush and Byron Donnelly launch the 2018 program of events for Youth Week.

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.

16 March 2018

Gunnedah Shire Council’s Access Working Group is conducting an Access Awareness Activity to highlight the challenges often faced by people with mobility issues when navigating their way through the CBD.

Councillors and staff involved in planning and infrastructure design decisions will access the CBD on Tuesday, 20 March from 11.00am to 1.00pm, using a range of mobility and vision aids, including goggles, canes, crutches and wheelchairs.

Access Working Group Chair Councillor Ann Luke said the activity will be conducted in conjunction with Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, supports Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017-2021 and long-term goals for enhancing access and cultivating inclusion throughout the Shire.

“Enhancing access in infrastructure planning and design often isn’t just about meeting the necessary standards and regulations,” Cr Luke said.

“As a community it is important that we work together to ensure we are inclusive and welcoming to everyone.

“This activity will provide participants and businesses with a valuable insight into what it is like for people who have mobility issues to undertake those ordinary shopping experiences that so many take for granted.

“The activity also supports efforts to raise awareness among businesses about the possible lost revenue through poor layout and designs within their premises, when they can’t be accessed by many potential clients,” she said.

“We encourage businesses in the CBD to invite participants inside to gauge how easy it is for people in wheelchairs, people on crutches, people with low vision, mums and dads with prams and others, to move around their shop.”

For more information contact Council’s Community and Social Planner Debra Hilton on (02) 6740 2100 or council@infogunnedah.com.au 

Photo: Gunnedah Shire Council’s Community and Social Planner Debra Hilton and Acting General Manager Andrew Johns will take part in the initiative.

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.