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.

August 13, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council and Hunter New England Health have joined forces to hold a Community Information Day on August 22 to link the community with the health and support services available to them.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said when things happen in people’s lives and they are faced with a stressful situation that causes a need for help, it could be challenging to know where to turn.

“Our community has been dealing with a lot in the last four years, with the extended period of drought, the onset and effect of the COVID-19 pandemic and, during 2020, many other tragic events that have touched the lives of many in our community,” Cr Chaffey said.

“We understand it can be very confusing trying to understand where to find help and which service providers offer the type of assistance you need.

“Gunnedah Shire Council and Hunter New England Health have agreed to the benefits of holding a community event to inform our community and provide the opportunity for members to engage with representatives from the many providers of health and support services in our region.

“These will include mental health services, counselling services and support services to help with day-to-day challenges including finances and charity assistance.

The information day will be for people of all ages and all walks of life.

“This event will be held in our Town Hall where the doors will open at 9am and close at 2pm.”

The Community Information Day will be held on Saturday, August 22 and will include a COVID Management Plan, with social distancing, sanitiser and electronic check-in at the door and COVID marshalls.

“We have a strong network of support services in Gunnedah Shire, but people need to be aware of what they are, what they provide, where they are and whether they are suitable for their needs,” Cr Chaffey said.

“This day offers a free and friendly opportunity to speak to representatives from participating organisations.”

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

13 August, 2020

More than $28,000 will go to 15 Gunnedah Shire businesses and organisations for new projects under the latest round of Gunnedah Shire Council’s Business Partner Program.

Business Partner Program Advisory Group chair Cr Ann Luke said this round had attracted 24 applications which were considered by the advisory group.

“The Business Partner Program has been a hugely successful Council initiative that has helped get close to 100 projects off the ground,” Cr Luke said.

“Gunnedah Shire Council has recognised the worth of this program during the difficult time of COVID-19 and has significantly stepped it up this year to encourage the resilience of our local businesses.

“We announced the special round aimed at improving a business’ online presence in April, as part of the Community Resilience COVID-19 Business Support Package.

“In June, we announced a special COVID-19 Business Partner Program round that encouraged online development for 22 businesses. Council has dedicated $200,000 this year to supporting worthy projects that assist new businesses or expand existing businesses and organisations.

“The boosted allocation of $200,000 towards the Business Partner Program is an initiative included among a range of measures in the second phase of the Community Resilience Package aimed at business recovery. The package, Invigorate Gunnedah, also includes an additional round to assist businesses in improving their appearance, with up to $1000 available for signage and façade upgrades. The round opens on 17 August and closes 30 September.

“This round will help 15 of our businesses and organisations, including significant support for a renovation of the Royal Hotel at Tambar Springs.

“The advisory group has been impressed by the level of innovation and optimism this round of applications shows.”

Successful applications for this round of Business Partner Program funding were:

• Royal Hotel, Tambar Springs - $10,000 towards a renovation
• The Beauty Loft - $2000 towards a makeover for the business
• Two Souls Boutique - $2000 for a new business start-up
• Stacey McAllan Legal - $1900 towards a Legal Dispute Resolution Centre
• BPA Civil and Mining Pty Ltd - $1700 towards business and employment marketing
• Men’s Retreat Barbershop - $1500 towards a shop upgrade
• Micah Barnes Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning - $1500 towards advertising
• Gunnedah & District Chamber of Commerce and Industry - $1400 towards recovery engagement with Gunnedah businesses
• Two Cats Creative - $1000 towards signage and backdrop
• Healing with Bowen - $1000 towards advertising and marketing
• Practical Health Consulting - $1000 towards an upgrade
• Jade Punch Art - $1000 towards a home office set-up
• Gunnedah BnB - $1000 towards business start up
• Carwash 2380 - $750 towards social media and brand awareness campaign
• Gunnedah Serviced Apartments - $500 towards upgrade of website and signage

Caption: Stacey McAllan from Stacey McAllan Legal is among the successful applicants for the latest round of the Business Partner Program.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

12 August, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council has taken out top honours in two categories at this year’s Local Government Awards, for librarian Christiane Birkett’s outstanding individual contribution and the Rainbow Serpent Water Feature Project.

Gunnedah Shire Librarian Christiane Birkett received the RH Dougherty Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution, with the award recognising and encouraging greater understanding and communication by councils with the communities they serve.

Under the leadership of Mrs Birkett, the Gunnedah Shire Library has delivered several award winning programs to the Gunnedah community. Most recently the Brain Training Expanded program was recognised in the NSW Local Government Excellence Awards for continued delivery to seniors during the COVID-19 library closure period.

Judges of the RH Dougherty awards commented, “[w]hat a great person Christiane Birkett is! Her passion to assist the community in particular to impart knowledge and her love, obviously, for books! The Brain Training initiative is a great idea! A great success story indeed.”

Council’s Rainbow Serpent Water Feature Project was also successful, receiving the Leo Kelly OAM Arts and Culture Award which celebrates outstanding achievement by local government organisations in strategic planning for arts and culture.

Judges commented that the water feature is “[a]n extraordinary story of persistence and admirable Aboriginal-led art. The capacity to engage not only with the women creating the sculpture but the support of the community is innovative.”

Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said that Council is honoured to be recognised for this important cultural initiative, and acknowledged the efforts of local Kamilaroi artists in bringing the project to life.

“Shirley Long, Janet Wanless, Delma Jones, Ellen Draper, Gloria Foley, June Cox, Alison Cox, Rita Long and Cindy Foley advocated for the completion of this project for almost 20 years,” Ms Mackley said.

“The water feature is now permanently installed in front of the Cultural Precinct as a celebrated cultural asset that preserves and celebrates the culture, history and experiences of these strong and determined women.”

The Rainbow Serpent Water Feature is positioned outside The Civic Theatre on Chandos Street as a part of Gunnedah’s Cultural Precinct. This is a permanent structure and is open for the community to visit.

To learn more about library programs and initiatives, contact the library on (02) 6740 2190.

Photo Caption: (From left to right) Artist Gloria Foley, Cr Owen Hasler and Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley, alongside the completed water feature.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

August 11, 2020

Another three projects submitted during a Gunnedah Shire Council call for community resilience projects will go ahead with significant benefits for the community.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said he was pleased to announce Carroll Progress Association, Gunnedah Tennis Club, and the Gunnedah Urban Landcare Group had been granted funding through the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Program.

“We called for new projects late last year to stimulate local spending, provide employment and use local businesses and suppliers while delivering a long-lasting public benefit,” Cr Chaffey said.

“These are three of the wonderful projects that met those requirements.

“It’s exciting to see the Carroll Sportsground on its way to being restored as the heart of the sporting community in Carroll. Congratulations to the Carroll Progress Association for taking on this project which will have not only sporting benefits, but will provide a gathering place and make the Carroll community even stronger.

“The Gunnedah Tennis Club has also come up with a great project to install LED lighting at the popular Wolseley Park courts. This will mean greater energy efficiency, more even lighting and less light spill for nearby residents. Gunnedah has some great tennis talent, and this will make the courts better for both those who are heading for big things, and those who just want to have a bit of fun.

“I would also like to congratulate the Gunnedah Urban Landcare Group (GULG) on their projects to improve the popular walking and recreation areas of Porcupine Reserve and Pensioners Hill Reserve.

“The initiative includes rehabilitation of some of the Porcupine walking track, installing bollards at the perimeter of the reserve to prevent four-wheel-drive damage, and new directional signs.

“At Pensioners Hill, GULG have created new garden beds with native plants and installed a new eagle bench which is a work of art.

“Gunnedah Shire Council is really pleased to have been able to work with these groups to secure federal funding through the Drought Communities Program, and we look forward to the results.

“These are projects that are help to build our resilience during times of drought and beyond.”

Photo Caption: Gunnedah Mayor Jamie Chaffey and Deputy Mayor Rob Hooke with Gunnedah Urban Landcare Group chair Mark Kesby (left) and member George Truman (right).

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.