22 May, 2020

Farmer Army marches on

Gunnedah Shire Council’s Farmer Army initiative will be expanded to help people impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Originally started to assist those in the primary production industry during the crippling drought, the Farmer Army will now include people who are unemployed or underemployed due to the impact of the Coronavirus.

“The Farmer Army was a great success during the worst stages of the drought, but thanks to better weather conditions, that demand has eased,” Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said.

“We are now pleased to be able to extend that program to provide assistance to those who might be struggling due to the severe impact of the Coronavirus on employment.”

The Farmer Army offers temporary, flexible work arrangements for eligible people to work on Council’s community projects.

To apply, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LMB7QNY

Council adopts Operational Plan

Gunnedah Shire Council has adopted the 2017-2021 Delivery Program and 2020/21 Operational Plan following a public submission period.

Council voted yesterday to adopt the plan which provides a blueprint for Council’s operations for the next financial year.

The 2017-2021 Delivery Program and 2020/21 Operational Plan for Gunnedah Shire Council outlines how Council delivers on the strategic objectives outlined in the over-arching Community Strategic Plan.

Council is now in the final year of that program, with the 2020/21 Operational Plan and Budget setting out the actions Council will take to deliver on the community’s vision for the Shire.

South Street Cycleway

Gunnedah Shire Council is constructing a new cycleway along South Street between View Street and Marquis Street with the assistance of NSW government funding.

Council has once again been successful in working with the NSW Government to progress important projects for the Shire, securing a 50% co-contribution funding from the Active Transport Program to construct the “missing link” in the town’s network of pathways.

The cycleway will be a shared pathway for pedestrians, runners and cyclists.

Cool news for Curlewis

Gunnedah Shire Council has approved funding for two reverse cycle air-conditioners in the Curlewis Hall kitchen.

The move supports a significant effort by the Curlewis Progress Association, who raised funds to install air-conditioners throughout the main part of the hall.

Mayor Jamie Chaffey congratulated the progress association members on their efforts in fundraising and for working closely alongside Council to improve this important community meeting place.

He said the addition of heating and cooling to the kitchen area would complement the work already undertaken by the Curlewis Progress Association who have reported an increase in hall hire and events since air-conditioners were added to the main part of the facility.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

15 May, 2020

Following recent announcements from the NSW Government, parks and playgrounds across the Gunnedah Shire have been reopened today for recreational use.

All playgrounds have reopened, except for Livvi’s place which will remain closed for scheduled maintenance until Tuesday 19th May 2020.

Social distancing measures still apply at playgrounds. Under the current restrictions only 10 people are permitted to gather in an outdoor area at the same time and the 1.5 metres apart and 1 person per 4m2 also apply.

Council is urging the community to exercise caution when visiting playgrounds and follow these guidelines:

• Maintain good hygiene practices. Wipe down surfaces and wash hands before and after using equipment,
• Observe current government guidelines for social distancing and gatherings of people,
• It is an individual’s responsibility to leave the area if it is too busy,
• Stay at home if sick, and
• Be mindful of others to ensure everyone gets a turn.

At this stage, Council will maintain current operational levels as no additional changes to services have been recommended by the NSW Government.

The Gunnedah Shire Council Elgin Street administration building remains closed to in-person visitors. Appointments, enquiries and payments continue to be conducted over the phone and online and there is a lockbox at the front of the building to leave documents and cheques.

Those wanting to make cash payments should continue to wait until the facility reopens. No interest will be charged in the interim.

Council will continue to monitor updates from the NSW Government and provide updates when public health orders allow for reopening of other services.

Additional Information:

• For further information about public health orders and COVID-19 visit www.health.nsw.gov.au
• To help reduce community transmission download COVIDSafe https://www.health.gov.au/resources/apps-and-tools/covidsafe-app
• Breaches of public health orders should be reported directly to police by contacting Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.nsw.crimestoppers.com.au
• For additional details about temporary service changes and Gunnedah Shire Council’s response to COVID-19 visit https://www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au/index.php/gunnedah-shire-covid-19-advice

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

13 May, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council has joined the NSW Environment Protection Authority’s (EPA) anti-littering campaign to call on the community to report littering from vehicles.

The Report to the EPA Service is part of a comprehensive NSW State Government anti-littering program that aims to deter people from littering by increasing the likelihood of being seen, reported and fined.

Each year over 25,000 tonnes of litter is tossed in NSW. According to the EPA, research shows people are less likely to litter if they think someone is watching. This campaign aims to reduce the amount of litter by reminding litterers that the whole community is on the look out.

Council’s Regulatory Services Co-ordinator Wade Berryman said the campaign sends a clear message that littering is unacceptable and that litterers will be seen, reported and fined.

“Roadside litter is one of our region’s most unnecessary and preventable environmental problems. Reporting littering from vehicles helps to raise awareness, change behaviour, reduce clean-up costs and keep our community clean,” Mr Berryman said.

“Cleaning up litter costs Gunnedah Shire Council time and money that could be better spent on other services that benefit the community.

“The removal of litter poses health hazards to those tasked with removing it. In the current climate it is particularly important to prevent littering given the Coronavirus can survive on surfaces. As travel restrictions are set to ease in the coming months, clean public spaces will also give residents and visitors greater confidence when out and about.

“There are a number of rest areas around the Shire where litter can be disposed of while travelling. Or it can simply be left in the car to dispose of at home. There are no excuses for this behaviour.

“If anyone in the community witnesses someone doing the wrong thing, take note of their vehicle type and numberplate and report it to the EPA.

“By registering to report littering from vehicles, we can be part of the solution to the issue of litter and can help keep our Shire looking its best.”

The EPA can issue fines of $250 for an individual and $500 for a corporation for littering from a vehicle, based on reports from members of the public.

To make a report you need to:

• Have personally witnessed the litter being thrown from the vehicle,
• Provide vehicle registration details and the location where the littering took place, and
• Report the incident within 14 days.

Council encourages everyone to get on board by going to the NSW EPA website, www.epa.nsw.gov.au/reporttoepa, and register to report littering from vehicles.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

May 6, 2020

The deadline for Gunnedah Shire Council’s annual Section 356 Community and Sports Small Grants Program has been extended.

Community and sporting groups now have until 5pm, Wednesday, June 24 to put in their submissions for grants that could help them plan for improved programs and new projects.

Funding of up to $5000 will be made available to those who are successful in their application for funding for projects and initiatives that not only benefit organisations but also the broader community.

Due to the restrictions around COVID-19, applications can be completed one of two ways:

1. Download the Section 356 Small Grants Community Sports Application Form, and prior to the closing date, return the completed form with the required attachments to council@infogunnedah.com.au

2. Complete the application via Survey Monkey and forward the required attachments separately to council@infogunnedah.com.au

Information and forms are also available by contacting Council’s Community and Social Planner, Debra Hilton on 0400 921 706 or by emailing council@infogunnedah.com.au

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

May 6, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council is pleased to announce that two rounds of the Business Partner Program are now open. As part of the COVID-19 Business Support Package, Council has released an extra round of the Business Partner Program aimed at getting businesses online with e-commerce platforms.

Businesses looking to grow their online presence or expand into new areas to build their resilience can apply for funding under the designation COVID-19 Business Partner Program.

This round includes funding of up to $2,000 for businesses who meet the funding criteria to boost their online presence with e-commerce capability to offset the challenges of COVID-19. This round will have a focus on supporting business that are diversifying their goods and services to meet changed circumstances during the Coronavirus.

At the same time, Gunnedah Shire Council is opening Business Partner Program round one of the 2020/21 financial year.

“The timing could not have been better, it is great to see that we can open these funding rounds to support our businesses in a time that they need it the most,” Chair of the Business Partner Program Working Group Councillor Ann Luke said.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a detrimental impact on some of our small businesses, and it was vital to assist local businesses in practical ways at this time.

“I have been really impressed with the way our businesses are adapting in innovative ways to meet the challenge.

“Gunnedah can be proud of its resilience. The Coronavirus threat has come on the heels of a devastating drought that has been felt throughout the community.

“But our businesses are continuing to find new ways to survive and, in some cases, thrive.

“The additional round of the Business Partner Program is part of Gunnedah Shire Council’s COVID-19 Business Support Package. It’s aimed at finding the gaps left by State and Federal programs, and helping our businesses keep a secure footing for better economic times ahead.
“I encourage businesses to take a look at this program and what it might help them to achieve.”

Application for the additional COVID-19 round aimed at assisting businesses to get online with e-commerce capability will require a simplified application process and will close on May 29, to be assessed at the June Council meeting.

Businesses will have a little longer to complete applications for round one of the 2020/21 Business Partner Program. It will close on June 30 and will go through the usual process and guidelines to be considered for a final decision at the July Council meeting.

To apply for the COVID-19 round, visit https://gunnedah.smartygrants.com.au/BPPCOVID2021-R1
To apply for round one, visit https://gunnedah.smartygrants.com.au/BPP2021-R1

About the Business Partner Program

The Business Partner Program has given more than 65 local businesses a helping hand with a total of more than $240,000 in funding since the program began.

If you would like some advice about how to put together an application for the Business Partner Program, you can send an email to council@infogunnedah.com.au

As always, applications are assessed by a panel and funding is recommended based on estimated economic or employment benefit to the Gunnedah Shire community and will be awarded funding based on the funding available.

For further details about the Business Partner Program, contact Council’s Economic Development team on 02 6740 2100 or council@infogunnedah.com.au

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

5 May, 2020

The colourful Rainbow Serpent Water Feature has now been installed at the Civic, realising a long-term dream.

The large-scale serpent adorned with glass mosaics, brass and coloured glass and oxidised concrete has now been permanently installed in front the Civic as a lasting tribute to the determination of Gunnedah’s female Kamilaroi artists. These artists include Shirley Long, Janet Wanless, Delma Jones (d.) , Ellen Draper (d.), Gloria Foley, June Cox, Alison Cox, Rita Long and Cindy Foley.

Gunnedah Shire Council Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said it had taken almost 20 years to see this important story come to life.

“The Rainbow Serpent Water Feature has had its own story – a story of determination and expression of the Kamilaroi women’s culture,” Ms Mackley said.

“The artwork is a beautiful addition to the Gunnedah landscape but these women have created a safeguard against the loss of irreplaceable cultural knowledge for the whole community to share and appreciate.

“Its creation has drawn on the culture, traditions, families, history and experiences of these women. Those stories are preserved in the 29 circular mosaics that are the feature of this public art piece.

“It’s amazing to see the Rainbow Serpent Water Feature come to life.”

TRAC began the Sculpture Court Public Art Project to connect the spaces within the Cultural precinct. Max Powell and Bronwyn McKeon began the design elements and an extensive community consultation process in 2001, facilitated by Jill Watkins. The Rainbow Serpent Water Feature was the third stage of this project as the result of a partnership with then-Chair of the Red Chief Lands Council, Ellen Draper (d.) who provided her own drawings as reference material for the final design.
TRAC secured funding to engage Mavis Stone and Max Powell to deliver a design workshop, developing skills in glass mosaic and design. From this workshop, the core group of female Kamilaroi artists met every week from 2002-2008, creating the glass circular mosaics, supported by Jill Watkins and Jan Shedden.

The Rainbow Serpent Water feature is the final stage of the TRAC Sculpture Court Public Art Project, which also delivered The River Red Gum Tree, installed in 2002 in the Mooki Room and the Water Mural, installed in 2005 in the Mooki Courtyard.

These Kamilaroi women have continued to advocate for this project to be completed and it has finally come to life. The project has come to fruition through funding and support from The Gunnedah Shire Council and the NSW Regional Cultural Fund and the passion and dedication of the Gunnedah community.

The sculptural part has now been installed and final works are expected to be completed over the month. An official opening will be held once COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted.

The Story of the Rainbow Serpent

As told by the late Elder Ellen Draper

In traditional Aboriginal storytelling, the Rainbow Serpent was not always a snake but a man who, by deception and lies, attempted to turn the people against their God, Baiame.

The Elders in the Dreamtime went to Baiame and told him what Rainbow was doing. Baiame punished Rainbow for his treachery by causing him to slither along the ground and sending him from the Dreamtime, never to return.

He was ordered to place all of the heavenly bodies and earthly objects in this land in such a way that balance was maintained. When he laid his head on the ground to rest from his labours, a waterhole or billabong was created; and where he travelled, rivers formed.

When his creation work was finished, the Rainbow Serpent transported all living creatures, including the people, to the land he had made for them and deposited them in their rightful places.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

May 5, 2020

Tomorrow, May 6, is National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day.

The Gunnedah community can join people around the country in taking a stand against domestic and family violence, an issue that has been highlighted as we see increased cases during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gunnedah Shire Council is supporting a national move with a Facebook event page allowing Gunnedah people to voice their support.

People are encouraged to spread the message by posting a photo of themselves, their family, friends or work team holding a candle.

Including the following message with your post to help make a unified stand against domestic violence:

“Today on National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day, I stand up and say no to domestic and family violence and light this candle to acknowledge all of the victims of domestic abuse.”

If you or someone you know needs help, please call NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 656 463. In an emergency call 000.

#DVRemembranceDay #ENDDFV

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

5 May, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council is reminding the community to stay alert and vigilant when it comes to vehicle security.

Gunnedah police have advised of a surge in vehicle thefts, including where perpetrators have entered residential and business premises to obtain vehicle keys.

Mayor Jamie Chaffey says he was disappointed to learn of a rise in vehicle thefts in the Shire, particularly at a time when the community is feeling the impacts of COVID-19.

“After a personal experience with this issue, I was frustrated to hear from police that this was part of a community-wide rise in vehicle theft,” Cr Chaffey said.

“These crimes are devastating for our community. I will continue to work with police until we see this activity cease and offenders identified.

“Reducing crime requires a collaborative approach from government, police, the community and individuals. I am confident we can all work together to tackle this issue and build a safer, stronger community.”

Councillor Fuller, chair of Gunnedah Shire Council’s Crime Prevention Working Group, has joined calls for increased community vigilance and says when it comes to reporting crimes, it is best to play it safe by reporting any suspicious activity.

“Keep your eyes and your ears open and make sure you’re reporting all crimes to the police, including property damage or graffiti,” Cr Fuller said.

“Minor offences pave the way for larger crimes, so early intervention is the best approach, especially for young offenders.

“If reporting a crime puts you in a difficult situation, you can choose to remain anonymous and police are here to help.”

In addition to reporting suspicious activities, there are preventative measures the community can adopt to reduce opportunities for vehicle theft. These include:

• When you leave your car unattended, even for short periods or at home, close all windows, remove the key from the ignition and lock all doors,
• Ensure that you have removed all property from view, especially phones, clothing, bags and money in consoles when you leave your car,
• Store keys in a safe location. At the workplace keys should be locked away. At home keep your house locked and don’t leave keys in prominent locations like key holders or hallway tables,
• Don’t leave personal papers such as licence or registration in your motor vehicle. They may be used by the thief to dispose of your vehicle, and
• Anyone with CCTV installed at their residence or business should register with the NSW Police database to aid investigations and collection of evidence. Register online at https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/online_services/register_my_business_cctv_details

Gunnedah Shire Council will continue to work with local police and the community to prevent crime. Further information about Council’s Crime Prevention Plan is available at http://www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au/index.php/community/community-health-safety/community-safety/item/933-gunnedah-crime-prevention-plan-2018-2022

To report a crime or suspicious occurrence, phone the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Reports can be made online by visiting https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

30 April, 2020

What started as a mural project has spread beyond the two-dimensional into a permanent interactive form of hope for the leaders of the future.

Nagami-Li Nugurrugu (To See Tomorrow) was the inspiration of Gunnedah Shire Indigenous artistis Jack Conlan and Renee Horne.

Their idea, which Gunnedah Shire Council fostered with funding through Regional Arts NSW’s Country Arts Support Program (CASP), coincided with a call from Gunnedah Public School for an Indigenous mural to transform the school. Sixty percent of students at the school identify as being Indigenous.

Gunnedah Shire Council Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said it had been wonderful to see this project blossom into a truly inspirational adventure that had gone way beyond original plans.

“There are now two huge and wonderful murals – including a sensory mural in the playground – that feature Dreamtime stories and symbols, native flora and fauna, and depictions of local sacred and significant sites,” Ms Mackley said.

“School students and staff worked so well with these two artists that the project expanded to include a bush tucker garden for the students to nurture and learn about native foods and flora, and an indigenous learning site for teachers to host cultural learnings that is also a quiet reflective space for students to explore.

“During NAIDOC Week in 2019, the school worked on clay leaves and other three-dimensional aspects to be included in the playground mural. The students and Renee Horne created an artwork that allows our future leaders to trace our local history with their hands as they trace dreamtime symbols and significant sites with their fingertips, throughout the sensory mural.”

Artist Jack Conlan created a 1.5m x 20m painted mural that includes large gates painted with the Gamilarray symbol for meeting place as well as other sacred sites and symbols.

“The project has changed the landscape of the school but has also enabled students to develop a sense of pride in their cultural knowledge,” Ms Mackley said.

“This project was led by our indigenous artists’ knowledge and a willingness to share culture, fostering student engagement and a proud youth voice.”

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

April 30, 2020

Gunnedah Shire is proving itself to be a creative force during the Coronavirus, with creators of all kinds sharing their talents through the #Gunnedahcreates hashtag.

It is now time to turn some of that talent into great new projects through Gunnedah Shire Council’s Arts and Cultural Grants Funding Program.

Gunnedah Shire Council is one of the few Councils in NSW that provide funding for arts and cultural programs, projects and events, and applications are now open.

Council Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said the aim of the funding program was to assist in the continuation of existing local projects, or to support new projects and initiatives that helped to meet the needs of the growing community, while strengthening cultural identity and connection to place.

“Council really wants to build the capacity of arts and cultural community groups so they continue to be part of Gunnedah Shire’s cultural landscape,” Ms Mackley said.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for community groups to develop new projects or expand on those that are already underway.

“We have a vibrant arts and cultural community in our Shire and we are hoping for some innovative applications.”

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
• Writing.

This is an annual competitive, funding opportunity. Projects can span up to 12 months and successful applicants can apply for subsequential annual funding rounds.

Applications are now open and are available to download below:

Form - Arts and Cultural Funding Application and Guidelines 2020

POLICY - Arts and Cultural Grants - Under Section 356 - Adopted 21 February 2018

Applications close at 5pm, Monday, 1st June, 2020.

For more information contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s Arts and Cultural Officer Lauren Mackley on (02) 6740 2100.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.