October 12, 2020

It is Small Business Month and Gunnedah businesses are urged to put their hands up for the latest round of the Business Partner Program.

This year the Business Partner Program has received a significant funding boost, with an additional allocation of $200,000 through Gunnedah Shire Council’s Community Resilience Business Recovery Package - Invigorate Gunnedah.

Business Partner Program Advisory Group chair Cr Ann Luke said the program offered grants for applicants whose business initiative can continue to help the Shire’s economy stay strong.

“This round of the Business Partner Program focusses on business owners who have a substantial project that will grow the Gunnedah Shire economy and create more local employment opportunities,” Cr Luke said.

“The funding boost was put in place as a COVID-19 recovery measure to help strengthen our businesses and encourage resilience.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for people to get that great, ground-breaking idea off the ground or to expand your existing business.

“Small Business Month is an ideal time to support our local business people, which helps build a stronger economy for the whole Shire.”

As well as demonstrating the contributions they will make to the project, business owners will need to show:

• Opportunity, need or demand for the project,
• Employment generation,
• Capacity and experience to undertake the project including marketing/promotional plans and any required approvals, and
• Commitment, capacity and plans to continue the initiative, if successful, without further support from Gunnedah Shire Council.

To apply, head to https://gunnedah.smartygrants.com.au/BPP2021R2

Applications close at midday on October 30.

Photo Caption: Mannion Drilling was a recipient of a Business Partner Program grant last year.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

October 9, 2020

Live theatre is making a comeback at The Civic, with tickets now on sale for upcoming production Country Witches Association.

The play stars comedian Mandy Nolan and Irish folk musician Àine Tyrrell in a playful reimagining of the role of the iconic Country Women’s Association.

The unique production offers an interactive experience for viewers, with audience members called upon to set a meeting agenda for the evening.

Nolan and Tyrell’s production is a humorous homage to the CWA, bringing support, connection and hysterical observations of everyday dilemmas.

Gunnedah Shire Council’s Events and Engagement Officer Jacinta Cipolla said it was fantastic to have live performances returning to Gunnedah.

“This live theatre performance will be a CWA meeting like no other, with a melting pot of politics, comedy and song,” Ms Cipolla said.

“This is great news for Gunnedah residents; these are experiences we have all missed so much.

“We will have a CovidSafe plan in place to ensure the health of the actors, crew and audience.

“This means ticket numbers will be limited so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.”

Country Witches Association will be held at 8pm on Friday November 20, 2020 at the Gunnedah Town Hall.

Tickets are available for purchase at https://sa2.seatadvisor.com/sabo/servlets/EventSearch?presenter=AUGSC&event=CWA1020.

Tickets can also be purchased over the phone on (02) 6740 2100 or in person at the Gunnedah Shire Council Administration Building and the Visitor Information Centre.

Photo Caption: Country witches Mandy Nolan (left) and Àine Tyrrell (right).

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

October 2, 2020

Want to become a Pool Lifeguard this summer?

Want to combine this passion with your excellent customer service, food handling experience and teamwork skills?

We are seeking a number of Casual staff to work at Gunnedah Memorial Pool. The positions are a combined skill of Pool Lifeguard and Kiosk Operation from October 2020 to April 2021 for the summer season.

Do I need to be a qualified Pool Lifeguard?

To apply no, we will train you as part of the recruitment, but as part of the training you will need to be able to complete tasks such as:

• Swim 200m in under 6 minutes
• Perform a manikin retrieval to 1.8 metres.
• Perform a 25m unconscious patient tow
• A medium to high level of aquatic fitness is required for some practical components to complete the course.
• Ability to perform CPR
• Must complete the necessary training before starting any shifts.

Pool Lifeguard Position description:

• Facilitating a safe, clean and enjoyable aquatic environment
• Work as part of a team delivering a high quality of customer service
• Knowledge of pool supervision, water safety, water education, rescue techniques and public safety requirements
• Be available from October 2020 to April 2021.
• Have an ability to work rostered shifts from 5:30am –8:00pm (Mon-Sun), including Public Holidays and available to fill occasional shifts on an ad-hoc basis.

 Essential Criteria for the Role

• Current Pool Lifeguard Licence (or willingness to obtain)
• Current Food Handling Certificate
• Current First Aid including CPR
• Current Working with Children Check (if over18)
• National Police Check (if over18)
• Immunisations (willingness to undergo) Hepatitis A&B, Tetanus
• Current Drivers Licence
• Minimum 17 years of age

Desirable Criteria for Pool Lifeguard

• Previous supervisory experience in an Aquatic Centre/Pool.
• High quality of customer service
• Barista experience
• Ability to work as part of a team or with minimal supervision

What’s in it for you?

• Great casual payrates and conditions with regular shifts. Support from a local and member-owned employer. All uniforms/PPE supplied.

For more information about this position and to apply, visit https://labourco.com.au/job/casual-pool-lifeguard-gunnedah/

October 1, 2020

Gunnedah’s extended swimming season will start this weekend when the 50m pool opens at the Gunnedah Memorial Swimming Pool complex.

The main pool entrance and the 50m pool will open at 9am on Saturday, October 3, a month ahead of the usual annual opening date in November, and just in time for warmer weather expected this weekend.

The heated pool will be open from the Eighth Division Memorial Avenue entrance at 5.30am as usual.

The complex’s opening hours during the summer season will be between 5.30am and 7pm Monday to Saturday, and 9am to 6pm on Sundays.

Hot food and barista-made coffee will be available between 4pm and 6pm Monday to Friday, and 12pm to 6pm on Saturdays, Sundays, school holidays and public holidays. Snacks and drinks will be available at other opening hours.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

October 1, 2020

Gunnedah’s creativity is in full bloom at the Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery, following the launch of the Spring into September exhibition last Friday.

In August the gallery called on residents to submit spring themed artwork and colouring-in for the community based exhibition now on display.

Gunnedah Shire Library joined in the creative output with a spring themed creative writing competition encouraging budding authors of all ages to put pen to paper.

Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said the competition has helped boost community spirit and provide accessible cultural experiences.

“Spring into September is all about getting Gunnedah locals involved with something creative and light-hearted during a time that has been challenging for everyone,” Ms Mackley said.

“I have been impressed with both the quantity and quality of works submitted; proving Gunnedah is a nursery for budding artistic talent.”

The following winners of the colouring-in and writing competitions were congratulated at the exhibition opening.

Gunnedah Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery colouring-in competition winners:

• Under 7 years: Alexander Byron
• 8-12 years: Erised Oosthuizen
• Ages 12 and over: J.S Clark

Gunnedah Shire Library writing competition winners:

• Under 7 years: Matilda O’Keefe
• Under 12 years: Clare Chapman
• 13 years: Wesley Law
• Young at Heart: Rachel Jones

The Spring into September exhibition continues until Friday October 30, 2020.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

October 1, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council has formed a new working group to build the Shire’s skills base and provide more local training opportunities.

During the September Council Meeting Councillors voted to form the Skills and Training Working Group. Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey, Deputy Rob Hooke and Councillor Colleen Fuller were nominated as Council’s representatives. They will be joined by seven community representatives, including two from Gunnedah TAFE and two members of the Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce.

Council is currently seeking additional nominations for community representatives, one each from a small, medium and large business in the Gunnedah Shire.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor and Working Group Chairman Jamie Chaffey said the working group will allow for greater collaboration between employers, vocational education providers and government.

“The Skills and Training Working Group will be a unified voice to advocate for our communities skills and training needs,” Cr Chaffey said.

“Community representation on the group allows us to hear directly from employers about training needs and helps us match these with solutions.

“A skilled, sustainable workforce will assist our local businesses in employing more local staff and will empower individuals to upskill and seek new opportunities right here in Gunnedah.”

Representatives will be required to attend working group meetings held on the second Tuesday of each month at 3.00pm at the Gunnedah Shire Council Chambers in Elgin Street.

Applications for business representatives close next Friday, October 9. The application form can be found here.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

September 30 , 2020

October is NSW Small Business Month, and Gunnedah Shire Council is asking small business owners to help celebrate by sharing their start-up stories.

Gunnedah Shire Council Economic Development Officer Emily Wilson said Council was holding a competition called Share Your Start-up Story to showcase the strong role small business plays in the Shire’s economy.

“We have more than 1100 small businesses in the Gunnedah Shire, and they cover a huge diversity of services and products,” Ms Wilson said.

“Our small businesses provide critical support for our industries and are themselves an irreplaceable and very vibrant part of our economy.

“We would like people to share their stories as an inspiration to those who have been through similar journeys or are thinking about starting their own business. It’s also a wonderful way to get to know more about our local businesses.

“We have three great prizes on offer:

– A Mindful Business Hub Membership (valued at $499) including:
o Lifetime access to the Mindful Business Hub digital course platform for one new member
o 12 weeks access to the Mindful Business Community support Facebook group
(The Mindful Business Hub is a 12-week online program for regional small business owners, helping you to release your blocks, learn the tools, cement your goals and create your very own Mindful Business Strategy)

- Two Cats Creative Business Reboot Package (valued at $600), including:
o Four business headshot photographs
o One blog or business profile story

- Country Horizons Writing Services Package (valued at $200), including:
o Your choice of writing services, such as a blog post, article for a newsletter, web page content or profile creation.

“Three entrants will be drawn randomly as winners on November 13.”

Entrants can submit their story of up to 300 words including how they came to do business in Gunnedah Shire, and why the Shire is the best place to do business on https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QHD3CHQ 

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

September 30, 2020

There is still time for residents to have their say about future plans for recreation spaces in the Shire, following the extension of Gunnedah Shire Council’s Open Spaces Survey.

The survey aims to measure how residents use and value open spaces for recreation. Open space land includes parks and playgrounds, reserves, sports fields and courts and green corridors with pathways or trails.

Feedback gained through the survey will inform Council’s overall Open Spaces Strategy and help shape a 10 year vision for future use and development of sports and recreation spaces.

Council Public Facilities Manager Ashley Gardner said that since the survey opened there has been good community participation, with over 200 responses received.

“Gunnedah Shire residents have indicated so far that walking is the top recreational activity and that connections are important, with the ability to use open spaces with friends, family and pets,” Mrs Gardner said.

“We have had a strong pool of responses from Gunnedah and Curlewis residents; however we would still like to hear from more community members, particularly those from villages.

“If you live in Breeza, Carroll, Emerald Hill, Kelvin, Piallaway, Tambar Springs or Mullaley there is still time to get involved. This will ensure we develop a clear picture of recreation needs across the whole Shire.”

The online survey takes approximately 5 minutes to complete and is available at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/OpenSpaceStrategy_CommunitySurvey

The results and findings will be used for future planning for the provision of outdoor sports and recreation areas.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

September 29, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council has launched an extensive and exciting marketing campaign to bring new investment and residents to Gunnedah Shire.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey today announced the start of a campaign that will bring some of the best of Gunnedah into businesses and living rooms across the country.

“This campaign promotes Gunnedah Shire as the first choice to live, to work and to invest,” Cr Chaffey said. “It is in itself a great investment for Gunnedah, attracting people and businesses to help build our future.

“We have already made the choice – we know just how amazing our Shire can be - but it might not be until someone from a metropolitan area sees our people and landscapes on their television, or someone reads about it in an industry publication, that they realise the full scope of what Gunnedah has to offer.

“Regional living is more affordable and offers so much for people looking to invest or bring up a family.

“These videos and advertisements feature real people and real businesses who are achieving great things in our Shire.

“This year has made many people reflect on their lifestyle choices. Gunnedah Shire is ideally placed for anyone looking for a tree change and for an enviable family lifestyle.

“We are really proud of our Shire – of our innovative and resilient businesses, our beautiful open spaces and our facilities. And things are only getting better with projects such as the Gunnedah Koala Park, the saleyards precinct upgrade and funding for a new hospital.

“We have significant employment opportunities and this is just a great place to live. Attracting more investment and more families can only help our community to grow even stronger.”

Gunnedah Shire Council Manager Economic Development Charlotte Hoddle said the marketing campaign was part of Council’s Invigorate Gunnedah COVID-19 Recovery Package.

“We know 2020 is turning into the year of the tree change, and this campaign positions Gunnedah to be recognised as the ideal place to expand their horizons,” Ms Hoddle said.

“We have so many great people and innovative stories, that it was hard to feature just a selection in our marketing campaign, but we really think what people are going to see is the real Gunnedah. It is a vibrant and progressive shire with a strong sense of community.

“These stories will be seen in television advertising, across social media and in digital and print marketing. We are targeting both the industries where there are employment opportunities, and the places where people might be considering the future for themselves and their family.

“We know that Gunnedah is the first choice for people to live, work and invest in, but we want to make sure the message spreads, and other people know it too.”

Caption: Launching the new campaign: (From left) Gunnedah Deputy Mayor Rob Hooke, Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson, Gunnedah Shire Council Manager Economic Development Charlotte Hoddle (front), Gunnedah and District Chamber of Commerce president Juliana McArthur, Gunnedah Mayor Jamie Chaffey and Gunnedah Shire Council Economic Development Officer Emily Wilson at the launch.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

September 23, 2020

All Signs Lead to Gunnedah

A double-sided electronic event sign will be installed at the Oxley Highway east of Gunnedah, following approval at the September Gunnedah Shire Council Meeting.

The digital noticeboard offers an additional platform of communication with both residents and visitors and uses colourful imagery to welcome visitors and promote sporting, cultural and business events.

The sign will be approximately 8 metres high and over 2 metres wide, visible from up to 85 metres away.

Mayor of Gunnedah Shire Jamie Chaffey said the vibrant, inviting signage at a main entrance was a great way to encourage visitors to stop and spend time in the region.
“We have an exciting calendar of events here in the Gunnedah Shire,” Cr Chaffey said. “Sport, agriculture, art – there really is something for everyone.

“This signage will help us promote these events to a wider audience of travellers, and has an added benefit of keeping the community informed about what’s happening around town.”

The installation of the new sign is part of Council’s Economic Development Strategy (EDS) and the Destination Management Plan (DMP), aimed at increasing tourism yield and greater promotion of the Gunnedah Shire.

Alcohol zones change an opportunity for restaurants and cafes

Gunnedah’s Alcohol Free Zones will remain unchanged for another four years, but restaurants and cafes will be now able to apply for outdoor licensing.

Gunnedah Shire Council voted at this month’s Council Meeting to endorse exemptions to the Alcohol Free Zones in the Gunnedah CBD to include licensed outdoor dining and alfresco areas, providing the operators have the relevant approvals under the NSW Local Government Act, the NSW Roads Act and with Liquor and Gaming NSW.

Alcohol Free Zones have been in place in Gunnedah for more than 14 years and are a crime prevention and community safety initiative to reduce binge drinking and alcohol-related assaults in public spaces. They are reviewed every four years and the current Alcohol Free Zone declarations remain in place until 30 June 2024. Penalties apply for infringements.

The recommendation was put to Council after consultation with stakeholders including the Gunnedah Liquor Accord, the Crime Prevention Working Group and other councils.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.