Customer Relations, Communications & Lifestyle
23 April, 2020
Gunnedah Shire Council has introduced a new business support initiative to help local businesses optimise their online presence during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In partnership with Tourism Tribe and Destination Country and Outback NSW, Council is offering businesses in the Gunnedah Shire free online training targeted at enhancing local businesses’ digital marketing platforms.
The training was developed in collaboration with neighboring local Council’s Tamworth Regional Council and Narrabri Shire Council to support businesses across the region to rebound when the current situation improves.
The course comprises of three sessions, held fortnightly from May 5. Subjects covered in the webinar series include:
- How to update your online presence,
- Content creation and leveraging user generated content, and
- Developing compelling experiences, packages and campaigns.
Gunnedah Shire Council’s Tourism Team Leader Megan Turner said the course is normally valued at $700 for each attendee, so is pleased it is available free to locals at a time when cost is prohibitive.
“While the training has been developed with the tourism industry in mind, it has been broadened to provide benefit to all businesses with online capacity,” Ms Turner said.
“Digital marketing is an ever-changing industry. This course is an opportunity for businesses to brush up on new technologies, rebrand or reposition their business or even build an online presence from scratch.
“I hope these training opportunities can help local businesses diversify and prepare for when we enter the recovery phase of the current crisis and begin welcoming visitors back to the Shire.
In addition to this business support initiative, there are a suite of free webinars listed on Gunnedah Shire Localised. Training is available on a range of topics including sales, hospitality, pricing and packaging of services and tips for start-ups.
For further information and to access the full listing of online training opportunities, visit https://gunnedahshire.localised.com.au/events/
ENDS
Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.
22 April
Yesterday AgQuip organisers, ACM Rural Events, announced that as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic AgQuip 2020 will be rescheduled from August to 10 to 12 November.
Gunnedah Shire Council is pleased to support this event and will provide assistance wherever possible to help local businesses and exhibitors migrate to the new dates.
For further information visit https://ruralpressevents.com.au/agquip/home/.
For queries regarding Gunnedah Shire Council’s involvement in AgQuip please contact Council on (02) 6740 2100.
17 April, 2020
The shape of the next year for Gunnedah Shire has been mapped out in a blueprint now open for public submissions.
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 our Shire.
Gunnedah Shire Council General Manager Eric Groth said the Operational Plan would unfold amid the global uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This Operational Plan is being prepared in unprecedented times; on the back of the worst drought in local history and pandemic (COVID‐19) having terrible impacts across the globe,” Mr Groth said.
“Despite this, the Operational Plan is a strong one, continuing on the significant achievements of the past year, and laying out the foundation for better infrastructure and a great future for Gunnedah Shire.
“This Operational Plan not only demonstrates that Council remains Fit for the Future, but does so on the back of significant community resilience-strengthening initiatives and amidst the response to the COVID‐19 pandemic.
“This is a delivery on the vision Council shares with the community as outlined in the Community Strategic Plan.”
The 2020‐21 financial year sees the continuation of a substantial and accelerated delivery of capital works totalling $23 million. This includes:
- $8.6 million for renewal of sealed rural roads
- $2.6 million for new and renewed water supply infrastructure
- $2 million for new and upgraded sewer works
- $1.8 million for replacement of plant and equipment
- $1.14 million for renewal and upgrade of Council’s depot facilities
- $741,221 for renewal of unsealed rural roads
- $549,849 for renewal of urban roads
- $439,437 for kerb and gutter renewal
- $320,225 for Regional Road renewal and upgrade
- $250,000 in new and renewed saleyard assets
- $165,846 for new and renewed parks and sporting ground assets.
This is on top of Council’s annual operation and maintenance programs and the roll‐out of the $3.2 million Community Resilience Program.
Major works in the capital works program include:
- $9.8 million for Clifton Road Upgrade over 2 years
- $8.4 million for completion of Koala Park and Education Centre
- $8.2 million for completion of Grain Valley Road Upgrade
- $3 million for completion of Mystery Road Upgrade.
The 2017-2021 Delivery Program and 2020/21 Operational Plan for Gunnedah Shire Council is now on public exhibition, with submissions closing 5pm on Thursday, May 14, 2020.
The 2017-2021 Delivery Program and 2020/21 Operational Plan and 2017-2021 Delivery Program and 2020/21 Operational Plan - Rating Category Maps can be viewed here.
As well as the budget for the coming financial year, the Operational Plan includes scheduled rates and charges. Should you have any enquiries, please contact Council on 02 6740 2100.
ENDS
Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.
16 April 2020
Gunnedah Shire Council will reintroduce Level P Permanent water conservation measures after Councillors voted yesterday to ease the current Level 1 restrictions from May 1.
The recommendation to ease restrictions was made after recent rainfall contributed to an approximate 50% improvement in bore production capacity and follows a significant reduction in water demand.
Level P Permanent water conservation will apply across the Shire to all properties connected to town water supplies in Gunnedah, Curlewis, Mullaley and Tambar Springs. These restrictions include:
- Fixed hoses and sprinklers restricted for residential garden and lawns except between 6-8am and 6-10pm during Daylight Saving Time and 6-8am and 5-9pm during Eastern Standard Time,
- Washing down of hard/paved surfaces and vehicles to be conducted with high pressure hoses only, and
- Pool covers to be used to reduce evaporation.
Council’s manager of water services Kevin Sheridan congratulated residents on their adherence to the Level 1 water restrictions, and said that a return to Permanent conservation measures will allow for a little more flexibility on when and how people tend to their lawn and gardens.
Mr Sheridan also said that although restrictions will soon be eased, water conservation should remain front of mind for all Gunnedah Shire residents.
“While we are fortunate to have a good supply of quality bore water, it is important to remember our region continues to experience the impacts of the drought. Saving water has multiple environmental and cost saving benefits,” Mr Sheridan said.
“It’s time to focus on forging lasting water saving practices to future proof our water needs.”
There are a number of ways households can make permanent reductions in water usage. Council’s top tips include:
- A running tap can use up to 10 litres of water per minute. Turn off the tap in between actions when brushing teeth, shaving and rinsing dishes,
- Swap to a water efficient showerhead and taps,
- Wait until you have a full load before running the dishwasher or washing machine,
- Plant for the climate and soil in your area, and
- Digital water meters installed by Council last year allow households to monitor usage between receiving water accounts. You can visit www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au for further information on reading your meter, or phone Council on (02) 6740 2100 for assistance detecting potential leaks and for a more detailed breakdown of your water usage.
Gunnedah Shire Council will continue to monitor water usage across the Shire and review water conservation levels regularly.
Level P Permanent water conservation measures come into effect on May 1. For further information regarding water conservation and restrictions visit www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au
ENDS
Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.
16 April, 2020
Gunnedah Shire Council has joined a state-wide call for the Federal and NSW governments to step up their economic support for local government during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a Mayoral Minute at this week’s Council meeting, Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said Gunnedah Shire Council was already suffering the consequences of the COVID‐19 pandemic.
“We fully understand and support the partial lockdown Australia is in, but it comes at a cost,” Cr Chaffey said.
“Gunnedah Shire Council is a major employer and the supplier of many essential services for our Shire. In addition to this, we are implementing measures to help our local businesses through this incredibly hard time.
“We are in a sound financial position but are also facing the impact of closures of services such as the pool, the cinema, cultural and sporting facilities. We are struggling with the last three years of compounding financial impacts of drought and now COVID‐19.
“Council has faced increased costs and at the same time is experiencing declining revenue as more and more ratepayers are forced into financial hardship. The impacts are escalating.
“Like other local government authorities around our state and the nation, we need to look to the future and ensure we can continue to support our community. It is critical that the local government sector receive adequate funding and resources to coordinate and deliver the goods and services needed as we navigate through, and recover from, natural disasters and the new challenges presented by COVID-19 without being forced to look to increase our residents rates and charges to fund any future shortfall.”
Council is seeking:
• Urgent Federal and NSW government delivery of comprehensive and multifaceted financial support and stimulus packages to local government to enable them to continue to operate effectively and provide essential services during the COVID‐19 pandemic
• An increase in Financial Assistance Grants payments to 1% of Commonwealth taxation revenue
• Stimulus funding to councils for projects that will help sustain council operations and boost local economies, such as increasing or bringing forward existing programs or introducing new programs
• Increased access to TAFE, VET and other apprenticeship opportunities that council staff can undertake to address skill shortages, especially for staff in non‐essential services who are unable to be redeployed.
Cr Chaffey has also commended the NSW and Federal governments on their strong leadership during the pandemic and committed to working in partnership with both tiers of government to protect community health and sustain our population and local economy.
ENDS
Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.
16 April 2020
Gunnedah Shire Council has announced a $1.6 million COVID-19 Business Support Package to help local businesses through this challenging time.
The package includes new measures to reduce some of the charges businesses face, as well as introducing a new Business Partner Program round to assist in developing ways to adapt to changes in spending.
Mayor Jamie Chaffey said the COVID-19 Business Support Package was aimed at protecting the Shire’s economy and residents’ livelihoods.
“COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on both health and economies throughout the world,” Cr Chaffey said.
“Our own Shire is no different. Many businesses in Gunnedah are already feeling the strain. This partial lockdown, while essential, is brutal on our businesses, and we all need to work hand-in-hand to ensure our economy remains strong and resilient.
“We have consulted with the Gunnedah and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry to put together the COVID-19 Business Support Package.
“The package includes some measures Council had already taken to ease the financial strain, including providing relief from interest on overdue rates and not escalating overdue debts during this time. But we have also included new measures, carefully weighed to ensure Council remains financially strong and able to deliver essential services.
“These measures include: a reduction of some water and sewer charges; an additional round of the Business Partner Program to help businesses adapt to meet changed consumer spending patterns; extending the waiving of street trading fees; a new approach to planning and compliance; and a strong focus on our Local Procurement Policy.
“We will also be looking at a further COVID-19 Community Resilience Business Recovery Support Package to help our businesses when this threat is over.
“Many businesses have already shown resilience and creativity during this lockdown, adapting quickly to diversify their operations, and they are to be congratulated.
“Gunnedah Shire has survived and thrived through some real challenges in the past. We can again. This package is aimed at working alongside the measures introduced by the Federal and State governments to protect our economy and make sure we are ready for the recovery phase.”
The objectives of the COVID-19 Community Resilience – COVID 19 Business Support Package are to:
- Provide fees and charges relief to small business;
- Provide relief from interest on overdue rates, annual charges and fees whilst ever Council’s Business Continuity Plan (BCP) is activated;
- Provide assurance that Council will not escalate overdue debts whilst ever the Council BCP is activated;
- Support local employment and local purchasing;
- Encourage business diversification and capacity building;
- Communicate updates from all tiers of Government and Non-Government to the business sector;
- Further support to those businesses in need due to the pandemic impacts where any significant gaps are identified in the Federal and State packages.
Gunnedah Shire Council already has in place an escalated Capital Works Program ($28 million) and Community Resilience Program ($3.2 million) in response to the unprecedented drought impacting the community, which will also assist in alleviating some of the economic impact of the COVID19 pandemic.
To take a look at Gunnedah Shire Council's COVID-19 Business Support Package, click here.
Caption: Vera and Robert Banks of Soil Futures Consulting were recent recipients of a grant through the Business Partner Program to create a website.
ENDS
Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.
15 April, 2020
The cast of Gunnedah’s newest sculpture has been completed, with installation of the tiles now in progress.
The Rainbow Serpent water feature has been taking shape offsite through Waterforms International to ensure structural integrity of the large artwork, before it is installed outside the Gunnedah Civic.
Gunnedah Shire Council Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said the construction schedule had been delayed by the challenges of social distancing and social isolation, but the sculpture was due to be installed in Gunnedah in May.
Following that time, there will need to be work on installation, connection of utilities, repaving and function tests, with the hope it will be fully completed in June.
“The story of the Rainbow Serpent, as told by the late Ellen Draper, is about restoring balance,” Ms Mackley said.
“In times like this, the completion of this project is a symbolic restoration of balance and hope for our future.”
The water feature incorporates mosaic tiles by a dedicated group of local Indigenous women. Shirley Long, Janet Wanless, Delma Jones, Ellen Draper, Gloria Foley, June Cox, Alison Cox, Rita Long and Cindy Foley became the core group of artists who met regularly for more than two years to create the glass mosaics that adorn the surface of the Rainbow Serpent Water Feature.
These women have been advocating for the completion of this project for just under 20 years.
“We are so happy with the progress so far. Waterforms International are doing a wonderful job and the serpent looks unbelievable,” Janet Wanless said.
“We are so overwhelmed and excited the project is finally taking shape and coming to life. It has been a long journey.”
In 2019, the project was awarded $155,725 through the NSW Government Regional Cultural Fund in December 2018, adding to the council's 54 per cent contribution to the total.
ENDS
Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.
April 9, 2020
Many of us might be isolated at home at what is a very uncertain time, but our creativity and connections can help turn this challenge around.
Gunnedah Shire Council is asking all our people who are using their time to create something new, to share their creations.
Council Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said #Gunnedahcreates was a new initiative to not only keep our existing artists and creatives inspired, but to celebrate the wonderful ideas people of all ages are coming up with.
“We are asking all poets, photographers, musicians, artists, weavers, woodturners and creatives to capture a piece of your creative world,” Ms Mackley said.
“You might be learning a new song, developing skits at home with the kids, an artist in your studio or a weaver on your loom.
“All we are asking you to do is to capture a video or a pic and post it on social media with #Gunnedahcreates so we can create a virtual platform of all of the wonderful ways we can continue to create in the face of adversity!
“Let’s continue to show the world how #Gunnedahcreates.”
Information is posted on the Civic’s Facebook page and Council is encouraging people to post their pics and videos on Instagram. You can also send your pics via message to the Civic’s Facebook page.
ENDS
Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.
9 April, 2020
Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey is reminding people that home is a good place to be this Easter break.
“It might be mandatory to stay at home this Easter, but that can be a very good thing,” Cr Chaffey said.
“This is a wonderful time to spend with your family, have an Easter egg hunt, enjoy a special meal together and think of the many things we have to be thankful for.
“Easter 2020 might look very different to any Easter we have celebrated before, but it reminds us of all the things that are most important in our lives – the people we love.
“Gunnedah Shire is doing well, and I urge you to continue that good work. Stay at home, celebrate Easter, and look forward to a time when things will return to life as we know it. Be kind to each other, be respectful and maybe even rediscover some of the things that made family life together memorable in the past – board games, sharing a joke, just enjoying each others’ company.
“Happy Easter to everyone in our Shire. While this time is a stressful one for many, you are still allowed to enjoy some of the best things in life.”
Gunnedah Shire residents are reminded:
Regulations state you MUST stay at home, unless you are going to:
• work (where you can’t work remotely)
• school or an educational institution
• shop for food and essentials
• get medical care or supplies, or
• exercise.
Other than those reasons, you can only leave your home if you have a reasonable excuse, including to
avoid injury or illness or escape a risk of harm, access childcare or attend a wedding or funeral – each of which have their own limited number of people. Usual Easter church services will not be held at churches, but may be streamed.
There are strict penalties in place for not meeting these regulations.
Further information:
Police are the responsible body for the enforcement of public health orders. If community members have concerns about breaches to COVID-19 health orders, they are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
• Anyone seeking the latest information on COVID-19 should visit or call:
o NSW Health – www.health.nsw.gov.au
o Australian Government Department of Health – https://www.health.gov.au/
o Coronavirus Health Information Line - 1800 020 080
• The Australian Government’s ‘Coronavirus Australia’ app is now available for download, providing health updates and a virtual symptom checker.
• Australians can also access updates via whatsapp by downloading the WhatsApp application, then visiting www.aus.gov.au/whatsapp
• The Gunnedah Community Roundtable has created a Facebook page to help connect the community to information regarding service closures, community groups and other helpful resources. You can follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Gunnedahcommunityroundtablemeeting/
• Following the closure of the Gunnedah Shire Council administration building in Elgin Street to face to face visitors, the customer service team remains available for enquiries through phone: (02) 6740 2100, email: council@infogunnedah.com.au or by visiting www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au
ENDS
Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.
6 April, 2020
Most of you would now be aware that a case of Coronavirus has been confirmed within Gunnedah Shire.
I know we had all hoped we would escape this threat without a single case, and that this news is hard to hear. We all have loved ones and friends we are anxious to keep safe. We are also, of course, concerned for the health of the person who has contracted the virus.
What we need to remember is that we have already implemented the measures needed to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus. Many people are self-isolating, many are working from home, and everyone MUST be social distancing.
Gunnedah Shire Council and many other organisations have moved their business from face-to-face services to over the phone, online and email. And Council has already put in place the second stage of our Coronavirus Response Strategy to help keep our community safe and healthy.
The challenge for all of us now is to follow the regulations and guidelines to the absolute letter.
There are more than one million cases worldwide and, to date, only one confirmed in Gunnedah. We need to do our best to keep it that way and not become complacent as we move through the weeks and months ahead.
Under Federal Government regulations, people should not be leaving their homes unless they have a reasonable excuse involving:
• Obtaining food or other goods and services
• travelling for the purposes of work or education if the person cannot do it at home
• exercise
• medical or caring reasons.
In addition, the Order directs that a person must not participate in a gathering in a public place of more than two people. Exceptions include gatherings of members of the same household, and gatherings essential for work or education.
There are very strict penalties for people anywhere who do not comply.
I would like to particularly congratulate the compliance of those who are required to attend the saleyards. Our saleyards are an important part of our economy. To allow them to keep running, we ask that you only attend the sale if absolutely essential and if you do, please strictly observe social distancing.
Our playground equipment around the Shire remains closed, and we thank people for helping to keep our community safe by abiding by these precautions.
Also, I would like to again thank those who are continuing essential services and who are working in the vital areas of health and emergency services.
Gunnedah is a strong community. We can get through this, and we are all working to make sure we get through it in the best way possible. Take care of each other and keep doing the right thing. Stay strong, safe and respect each other.
Further information:
Police are the responsible body for the enforcement of public health orders. If community members have concerns about breaches to COVID-19 health orders, they are encouraged to contact local police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
• Anyone seeking the latest information on COVID-19 should visit or call:
o NSW Health – www.health.nsw.gov.au
o Australian Government Department of Health – https://www.health.gov.au/
o Coronavirus Health Information Line - 1800 020 080
• The Australian Government’s ‘Coronavirus Australia’ app is now available for download, providing health updates and a virtual symptom checker.
• Australians can also access updates via whatsapp by downloading the WhatsApp application, then visiting www.aus.gov.au/whatsapp
• Following the closure of the Gunnedah Shire Council administration building in Elgin Street to face to face visitors, the customer service team remains available for enquiries through phone: (02) 6740 2100, email: council@infogunnedah.com.au or by visiting www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au
Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100
