16 November 2018

Gunnedah residents will see work beginning this month (November 2018) on the new $62 million Gunnedah road over rail bridge, ahead of schedule.

Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey and Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson met with Daracon and RMS at the site on Friday, 16 November to announce early works are to commence.

The project aims to reduce congestion on local roads, provide safer traffic solutions for now and into the future as the region grows.

- The project is funded by the NSW Government as part of the Bridges for the Bush program
- Daracon Group has been contracted by Roads and Maritime Services to deliver this project
- Work will be carried out from 7am to 6pm on weekdays and from 8am to 1pm on Saturdays
- Work will be suspended during the Christmas period, between 24 December 2018 and 6 January 2019

Another benefit of building the overpass includes a shared pedestrian and cyclist path on the eastern side of the bridge and a new roundabout at the intersection of Oxley Highway and View Street.

The bridge is expected to be completed by mid-2021.

16 November 2018

New banners in the Shire share a singular message about domestic violence and bullying; Gunnedah says no to violence.

Gunnedah Shire Council received a grant of nearly $17,000 for a crime prevention campaign towards domestic violence and bullying from the State Government’s Department of Justice.

Crime Prevention Working Group Chair Councillor Colleen Fuller welcomed the funding.

“The low report rates on domestic violence make it almost impossible to know for sure what the true impact is on people and our community,” Cr Fuller said.

“We hope this campaign will be a visual warning to a potential abuser and, where domestic violence has already occurred, give people a pathway to seek support and have the confidence to come forward and report it.”

Last week, representatives from Gunnedah Shire Council, the Gunnedah Community Action Team and Crime Prevention Working Group assisted in raising the flags on Conadilly Street in Gunnedah to signal the start of the campaign.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey thanked the State Government and Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson for supporting the campaign.

“You may have already noticed the eight flags hanging around Gunnedah, and soon you will see the street sweepers and garbage trucks wrapped in the anti-violence messaging as well,” Cr Chaffey said.

“In Gunnedah Shire we have no tolerance for any form of abuse or bullying.

“Our hard stance and previous community awareness campaigns have led to a significant reduction in reported incidents of domestic violence, but the target is, and should be, zero.”

Cr Chaffey said the campaign is an extended operation, so people are consistently reminded about the need to speak out and how they can find help.

“The flags will fly for the month of November to coincide with White Ribbon Day, and the trucks will have the vinyl vehicle wraps on them for at least a couple of years to continue in sharing the message,” Cr Chaffey said.

“Congratulations to the Crime Prevention Working Group with the support of the Gunnedah Community Action Team on this initiative.”

For more information on the campaign, contact Gunnedah Shire Council Community and Social Planner Debra Hilton on (02) 6740 2100.

If you, or anyone you know, are impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence and abuse call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visit www.1800respect.org.au

Photo Caption: Speaking out about violence. Left to right: Gunnedah Shire Council Community and Social Planner Debra Hilton, Mayor Jamie Chaffey, Crime Prevention Working Group Chair Cr Colleen Fuller, Tourism Supervisor Chris Frend, Inspector Michael Wurth and Gunnedah Community Action Team members Jess Blair, Dalton Dorrington and Melinda McCulloch.

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Media Contact: Brooke Maisey 6740 2100.

15 November 2018

A major water meter infrastructure upgrade is beginning in the Gunnedah Shire with the installation of automatic water meter devices at Gunnedah, Curlewis, Tambar Springs and Mullaley.

Fully funded by Gunnedah Shire Council, the project will see automatic water meter devices fitted at approximately 4500 homes and businesses throughout the Shire. The project will be commencing in December, with the devices to be installed by 30 June 2019.

Gunnedah Shire Council Manager Water Services Kevin Sheridan said the automatic water meter devices will be a useful tool for both Council and residents to more accurately monitor water usage and identify issues, such as leaks, faster.

“The automatic meter devices provide real‐time water usage readings,” Mr Sheridan said.

“Council and customers will be able to use a web-based management tool to constantly measure volumetric use and identify water leaks whilst more accurately monitoring pressure and flow throughout the network, ultimately reducing water bills and operational costs.”

Mr Sheridan said the data collected from the devices, such as daily and target usage, as well as cost per day will be a great asset for future water infrastructure planning.

"The reporting processes will allow Council to better monitor peak demand and plan for water upgrades, as well as be notified if the water meter devises are tampered with,” he said.

The automatic water meter devices replace existing meter devices and need to be installed by hand on every property with access to town water. The device battery lasts for approximately 15 years and does not incur any costs for the property owner.

Mr Sheridan said customers may experience periodic water interruptions while the devices are being fitted.

“There is a need to reach the water meter devices during the installation. Residents are asked to ensure the meters are accessible to avoid Council disturbing the gardens,” Mr Sheridan said.

“Council staff will let residents know ahead of time when they should expect works and water disconnections to be occurring in their area.”

The data will also be used for billing purposes. Customers will have the option to view their usage and compare it to the water bill provided to them by Council.

For more details about the project, please contact our customer service team on (02) 6740 2100.

Photo Caption: Manager Water Services Kevin Sheridan displays the automatic water meter device which will replace the old one.

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Media Contact: Brooke Maisey 6740 2100.

8 November 2018

Villages in Gunnedah Shire can apply for grants up to $500 to assist them in hosting events and activities for Australia Day 2019.

Gunnedah Shire Deputy Mayor and Australia Day Working Group Chair Rob Hooke encourages every village to apply for the funds made available specifically for Australia Day celebrations.

“Each village has their own atmosphere and community that is unique,” Cr Hooke said.

“By making available money that is dedicated specifically to the villages, the Shire will have diverse and exciting celebrations that are truly representative of Australia.”

Cr Hooke said all not-for-profit community groups and committees in the Shire’s villages can apply for up to $500, which can be used in a wide variety of ways.

“Perhaps you are looking to host a community event, support an existing event, advertise your Australia Day celebrations or purchase materials. There are many different ways you can be eligible for the grants,” Cr Hooke said.

All Australia Day activities fund applications will be assessed by a panel of the Australia Day Working Group. To apply, groups are encouraged to submit a letter or email outlining a brief description of the activity or event. Applications close 5.00pm, Friday, 7 December 2018.

Council is also calling on community groups, organisations or businesses to submit their Australia Day event information to be included on the annual Australia Day activities schedule. The schedule is distributed throughout the Shire to ensure all community events are acknowledged and well attended.

Residents are invited to attend the Australia Day Working Group’s next meeting at 5.00pm, Thursday, 22 November 2018, at the Gunnedah Council Chambers on Elgin Street.

For more information contact Cultural Precinct Supervisor Lauren Mackley on (02) 6740 2100 or email council@infogunnedah.com.au

Photo Caption: Looking forward to Australia Day in 2019.

ENDS

Media Contact: Brooke Maisey 6740 2100.

5 November 2018

Residents in the Gunnedah Shire can come together to commemorate 100 years since the end of the First World War on 11 November 2018, as Remembrance Day events across the Shire mark the significant occasion.

An event held at the historic Tambar Springs Cenotaph will commemorate 100 years of Anzac and 100 years of the Tambar Springs Memorial, making it one of the oldest memorials in Australia.

The day will commence at 9.45am at the Tambar Springs Memorial Park, and will consist of entertainment and speeches recognising the history of the Cenotaph and performances by Gunnedah Shire Band and Gunnedah Conservatorium of Music.

The official Remembrance Day Commemoration Service will begin at 10.45am.

Gunnedah Shire Council Anzac Working Group Chair Cr Owen Hasler said there has been terrific support from Tambar Springs and the Gunnedah RSL Sub-branch for the event.

“Thank you to President John Ceissman, Secretary Robyn Styles and other members of the Tambar Springs Progress Association,” Cr Hasler said.

“Together with Gunnedah RSL Sub-branch President Peter Kannengeiser, past President Peter Clark and member Carol Lees, the final event from the past five years commemorating the Centenary of Anzac will be one of the best.”

A light luncheon will be provided in the park immediately following the ceremony courtesy of the Tambar Springs CWA, and the Tambar Springs Progress Association has also arranged for a display of local memorabilia.

Cr Hasler said the significant commemoration will be marked with a number of special guests.

“Member for Parkes Mark Coulton, and Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson will speak on behalf of their respective governments, and President of the National Farmers’ Federation Fiona Simson will respond on behalf of local veterans’ families,” he said.

Gunnedah RSL Sub-branch is also hosting a Remembrance Day Service at the Gunnedah Cenotaph on Conadilly Street from 10.45am.

Bus transport to Tambar Springs is available and bookings can be made by contacting the Visitor Information Centre on (02) 6740 2230 before Friday, 9 November in order to confirm a seat.

Photo Caption: The Remembrance Day ceremony in Tambar Springs will recognise 100 years of Anzac and the historic Tambar Springs Cenotaph.

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Media Contact: Brooke Maisey 6740 2100.

2 November 2018

More than 300 people turned out on Saturday afternoon to support drought relief efforts at the live stream of the Hay Mate Concert at Kitchener Park on Saturday (27 October).

Optus and Channel 9, supported by Gunnedah Shire Council hosted a live stream on a big screen of Hay Mate – A Concert for the Farmers, with headlining acts including John Farnham, Guy Sebastian, Daryl Braithwaite, The Veronicas, Adam Harvey and more.

Gunnedah Shire Council Mayor Jamie Chaffey thanked everyone for their support.

“There was a great atmosphere on Saturday evening and it was encouraging to see people continue to support drought relief efforts, and to keep it prevalent as the drought certainly isn’t over. Whether taking time out to enjoy a relaxing evening with their families, or being a fan of the musicians, people were having a great time,” Cr Chaffey said.

“We are proud to say that over $1,200 was raised for Rural Aid’s Buy a Bale from the gold coin entry donation and an additional $189 from the barbecue hosted by Rotary Club of Gunnedah. Thank you to Optus and Channel Nine for extending this event to our community.”

Optus General Manager for North West NSW Chris Simon said he was pleased to see people come together to enjoy an evening of fun and entertainment.

“No one does community quite like regional Australia, and the fantastic work from all involved was testament to this, from the Rotary Club, to the attendees,” Mr Simon said.

“We’re extremely thankful to everyone who helped us to make this a success and look forward to working on any future initiatives that arise with the Council and Gunnedah community.”

More than 4,500 farmers have sought help from the Rural Aid charity this year.

Photo Caption: A great evening in Gunnedah for the Hay Mate Under The Stars concert.

ENDS

Media Contact: Brooke Maisey 6740 2100.

1 November 2018

Do you know someone who has made contributions to the community, inspires others or is a positive role model?

Gunnedah Shire Council is calling for nominations for the 2019 Australia Day Awards, with winners to be announced at the Annual Australia Day Dinner on Friday, 25 January 2019 at the Gunnedah Town Hall.

Gunnedah Shire Council Deputy Mayor and Australia Day Working Group Chair Rob Hooke said Gunnedah Shire is a community proud to celebrate the achievements and contributions of the individuals that “make up the fabric of the community”.

“The Australia Day Working Group is seeking nominations for people and groups who exhibit wonderful community spirit and make notable contributions to the Gunnedah Shire and its people,” Cr Hooke said.

“We all know someone who has made outstanding contributions and achievements in their particular areas, and we encourage you to give those who are deserving of recognition for their involvement by nominating them.”

Categories include:

• Citizen of the Year Award - 21-40 years
• Citizen of the Year Award - 40+ years
• Junior Citizen of the Year –13 years and under
• Young Citizen of the Year Award - 21 years and under
• Ossie and Beryl Campbell Memorial Volunteer of the Year Award
• Eve Turner Perpetual Trophy
• Cultural Award
• Community Organisation Achievement Award
• Community Event Achievement Award
• Max and Mikie Maas Good Neighbour Award
• Male and Female Sportsperson of the Year
• Junior Male and Female Sportsperson of the Year
• Junior Sports Team of the Year Award
• Sports Team of the Year Award
• Ivan Towns Memorial Award – Coach of the Year

Nominate one of Gunnedah Shire’s treasures today.

2019 AUstralia Day Nomination Forms are available to donwload onlione or from Council’s Administration Building, 63 Elgin Street; Gunnedah Visitor Information Centre, 81 Chandos Street; Gunnedah Shire Library, Conadilly Street.

Completed nomination forms with supporting documentation should be returned to Gunnedah Shire Council, council@infogunnedah.com.au or PO Box 63, Gunnedah 2380, before 5.00pm, Monday, 7 January 2019.

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

Photo Caption: Gunnedah’s Citizen of the Year 2018 Delores Worthington and Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey at the Australia Day Awards Ceremony on 26 January 2018.

ENDS

Media Contact: Brooke Maisey 6740 2100.

1 November 2018

Gunnedah Shire Council put forward six motions to discuss and debate at the Local Government New South Wales (LGNSW) Annual Conference held in Albury this month.

The conference is a platform for Local Government to raise motions that will, once passed, become Local Government Policy.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey, General Manager Eric Groth and Councillor John Campbell represented Gunnedah Shire Council at the Conference, which was held from Saturday, 20 October to Tuesday, 23 October 2018.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said Gunnedah Shire Council put forward six motions, with all six successful.

“It was very positive for us to be heard on all motions, with all six passed with a couple of amendments,” Cr Chaffey said.

“The motions we raised were issues that affect many different Local Government areas, and therefore could have long-term positive results.”

The six motions raised by Gunnedah Shire Council included:

• Calling on both State and Federal governments to better plan for drought protection;
• Support for Agriculture dependant businesses by way of access to a program similar to the “Farm Management Deposit” scheme;
• Increased access to aviation landing spots for regional and rural councils and support to stop the decline in trained pilots throughout Australia;
• Reversing of recent funding cuts for public libraries;
• More funding support for regional and remote NSW health services; and
• A reduction in time for pre-polling during the Local Government elections without affecting the two week postal vote allowance.

Cr Chaffey said the NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, presented the welcome speech at the opening function, with many other speakers of note in attendance.

“The Conference is also an opportunity for Council representatives to network, share ideas and debate issues that shape the way Councils are governed and a chance for everyone to come together and discuss the future of NSW,” he said.

Photo Caption: Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey and Deputy Mayor Rob Hooke discuss the LGNSW Annual Conference.

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Media Contact: Brooke Maisey 6740 2100.

31 October 2018

In accordance with Section 418(3) of the Local Government Act, 1993, Gunnedah Shire Council advises that the Ordinary Council Meeting to be held on 21/11/2018 will include the presentation of the Audited Financial Statements and the Auditor’s Reports for the financial year ending 30/06/2018.

In accordance with Section 420 of the Local Government Act, 1993, any person may make a submission in writing to Council with respect to the Council’s Audited Financial Statements or the Auditor’s Reports.

The Audited Financial Statements and the Auditor’s Reports may be viewed online or in person at Council Administration Building, 63 Elgin Street, Gunnedah.

Submissions close one week after the above public meeting has been held.

Eric Groth
GENERAL MANAGER

30 October 2018

More than 40 local business owners and interested community members were able to learn from a business industry legend at the Small Business Month event, ‘Lunch with Lisa Messenger’ on Friday, 23 October.

Held over lunch at the Gunnedah Band Hall, Australian entrepreneur and author Lisa Messenger spoke openly to the attendees that sometimes all it takes is a good idea and an eye for picking skilled people to succeed.

Gunnedah Shire Council’s Manager Economic Development Charlotte Hoddle said the details Ms Messenger shared of her experiences were “invaluable” to the attendees.

“Lisa is an exceptional speaker and her story engaged everyone who was there,” Ms Hoddle said.

“Attendees learnt about taking risks, opening their minds to creative solutions to problems, and not mourning over failed attempts but using them as a tool to be better.”

Ms Messenger shared that she launched Collective Hub as a print magazine in 2013, with no experience, no degree and no skills other than an idea and a knack for finding the right people who could make things happen.

Collective Hub has since grown into an international multimedia business and lifestyle platform.

“Lisa is unique in that she understands the challenges and opportunities facing businesses in regional NSW, and that is what made her talk so engrossing,” she said.

“The best advice Lisa gave was a challenge the audience members; to get out of their comfort zones and change the way they think about business.”

Lisa Messenger donated a number of her books to the Gunnedah Shire Library, which are now available to borrow.

Photo Caption: Business owners and community members gathered at the Gunnedah Band Hall to hear from media influencer Lisa Messenger.

ENDS

Media Contact: Brooke Maisey 6740 2100.