June 2, 2020

A load limit is now in place for the Orange Grove Road bridge located 30km from the Kelvin Road turn-off and 6km from the Rushes Creek junction.

The bridge now has a gross 20 tonne maximum limit to ensure safety for road users.

The bridge includes a timber structure that is close to 100 years old, with a concrete deck added in the past two decades.

Gunnedah Shire Council chief engineer Daniel Noble said the age and condition of the structure meant it was a necessary safety precaution to introduce a weight limit.

But Mr Noble stressed the bridge remained safe for vehicles less than the 20 tonne maximum limit to use.

“The load limit will remain in place for the foreseeable future,” Mr Noble said.

“Heavy vehicles with a gross tonnage of less than 20 tonnes can continue to use the bridge.

“Heavy vehicles with a gross tonnage more than 20 tonnes, will need to find an alternative route such as Kelvin Road, Bloomfield Street and the Oxley Highway.”
The school bus route will not be impacted.

Residents within the area who would like to be kept updated on the Orange Grove Road bridge can send an email to council@infogunnedah.com.au or contact Gunnedah Shire Council on 6740 2100.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

29 May, 2020

With COVID-19 restrictions beginning to ease, Gunnedah Shire Council has set out a plan for reopening services and facilities.

Updates to services will be communicated through a ‘traffic light alert’ confirming whether a service is currently open, open with conditions, or closed. Additional information will outline any conditions for visiting a facility.

Gunnedah Shire Council General Manager Eric Groth said given the ever-shifting nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, service changes would be considered on an individual basis following Government advice.

“We are taking a considered approach to reopening Council facilities to the public, with the health and safety of our staff and community at the forefront of all decisions.

“Following the release of a public health order, it is a matter for Council’s to decide what should be open and the conditions to be applied. Factors to be considered include the size of the space, number of visitors, the needs of stakeholders using a facility and safety of both staff and the public.

“Given recent announcements from the NSW Government, Gunnedah residents can expect to see a return to face-to-face services at locations like the Gunnedah Shire Library and the Administration Building from Monday, June 1.

“This will be a cautious reopening, and it won’t be pre-Covid-19 business as usual. Social distancing protocols, hand hygiene stations and visitor limits will be part of our new normal.

“We are encouraging the community to put the safety and well-being of all, and particularly the vulnerable, in the community first by continuing to make payments and enquiries online or by phone wherever possible. This will help limit the risk of infection.

“We know the Gunnedah community is eager to get back into their regular routines, but we must continue to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community even as business reopens.

“We thank the community for adapting to new ways of conducting business with us, and for their patience as we all continue to navigate a complex situation.”

From Monday, June 1 service changes at the following Council facilities will apply:

• Elgin Street Administration Building reopening to the public for essential purposes.
  • Modified opening hours from 9am to 4pm will allow for extra cleaning.
  • Enquiries and payments should continue to be completed over the phone or online if possible.
  • Please phone ahead for all appointments including for Planning, Rates, Water and Animal Control as teleconferencing is still being utilised for some of these services.
• Library reopening to the public to resume normal business hours.
  • Limit of 15 people in the library at one time,
  • All returned books will be quarantined before re-entering circulation.
  • Library group programs are suspended, but housebound services are still available.
• Reopening of the Visitor Information Centre and Gunnedah Bicentennial Arts Gallery are also planned for Monday, pending the release of relevant public health orders.

For the current status of all Council services, visit https://www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au/index.php/gunnedah-shire-covid-19-advice

To keep up to date with new service changes, follow Gunnedah Shire Council on Facebook.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

27 May, 2020

Small businesses in the Gunnedah Shire have an opportunity to grow their digital capabilities through the Australian Small Business Advisory Services (ASBAS) Digital Solutions program.

The ASBAS program is funded by the Federal Government and offers small businesses high quality advice on a range of digital solutions to meet their business needs.

The program was rolled out at a local level two years ago and during the COVID-19 pandemic has been extended to offer businesses up to 24 hours of free digital advice. 

Small businesses with fewer than 20 full time employees and sole traders can access the service and there is no application process.

The program incorporates a mix of one-on-one consultations, webinars and group training sessions. Topics covered include:

• Websites and selling online,
• Social media and digital marketing,
• Using small business software, and
• Online security and data privacy.

Hugh McKellar from the Northern Region Business Enterprise Centre is the region’s local ASBAS Digital Solutions provider and said the program had allowed many small business owners how to take control of their online presence.

“I have helped people learn how to build and edit their websites, perfect their next social media post and transition offices to secure remote working arrangements,” Mr McKellar said.

“In this time of change, the ASBAS Digital program is here to help you with straight forward practical help and advice.”

Gunnedah Shire Council’s Manager of Economic Development Charlotte Hoddle is pleased this support is available at a time when the business community is facing unprecedented challenges.

 “Accessing business support and building digital capacity will help place businesses in the best possible position to navigate through this crisis and will better prepare them to take advantage of the recovery,” Ms Hoddle said.

For further information on the ASBAS program visit https://www.business.gov.au/Expertise-and-Advice/Australian-Small-Business-Advisory-Services-ASBAS-Digital-Solutions

To access the program you can contact local digital business advisor Hugh McKellar directly on 0417 274 447, (02) 6297 3121 or by email on hugh@nrbec.com.au.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

26 May, 2020

Gunnedah residents have had their say and helped Gunnedah Shire Council develop a statement that sets out the community’s land use aspirations for the next 20 years.

The Draft Future 2040 – Gunnedah Shire Local Strategic Planning Statement is now on public exhibition.

Gunnedah Mayor Jamie Chaffey said the plan provided a vision and framework to guide detailed land use planning to help the shire grow in a vibrant, competitive and sustainable way.

“This important document will help Gunnedah Shire Council prepare for the next 20 years,” Cr Chaffey said.

“Future 2040 will ensure growth happens in a sustainable and consistent way, while maintaining low unemployment.

“It will help inform any changes to the Shire’s Local Environmental Plan and Development Control Plan.

“The community has taken part in extensive public consultation to help put Future 2040 together as a road map that takes on board the ideas of our residents and aligns future land use with the Shire’s strategic plan.

“Times have been difficult, but the Shire continues to show its resilience, to grow and to attract infrastructure development and investment. This plan will help us guide that growth effectively and responsibly into the future.”

All councils are required to have to have a Local Strategic Planning Statement under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act.

Gunnedah Shire’s Future 2040 aims to:

• Strengthen Gunnedah Shire’s productivity and competitiveness
• Nurture quality lifestyles and sustain population growth
• Value, protect and diversify Gunnedah Shire’s primary production land and natural resources
• Promote regional connections to ensure a diverse industry base with a skilled and stable workforce
• Build effective responses to climate change and natural hazards
• Preserve the environment and protect the heritage, history and character of Gunnedah Shire.

Gunnedah’s Vision Statement for Future 2040:

“By 2040, Gunnedah Shire will enjoy exceptional lifestyle opportunities and a prosperous and diverse economy built upon our education, skills, natural resources, rich cultures and heritage.

The idyllic, liveable and close communities are the heart of our beautiful, healthy and unique rural character which attracts residents and visitors who seek a sense of belonging.

Our community is a leader in sustainable and innovative approaches so future generations and Traditional Custodians can continue to enjoy abundant and healthy natural environments and a desirable climate.

Together we see a future beyond 2040 where we continue to harness connections that provide pathways for goods, services, information and people to move into and around the Shire.”

Fast facts:
• 60 community members were involved in workshops
• 1,200 issues and opportunities were raised in the workshops
• 80 people responded through surveys
• 1,308 visits to the social pinpoint site
• 141 comments on the social pinpoint site
• 507 social pinpoint interactions

Submissions on the Draft Future 2040 – Gunnedah Shire Local Strategic Planning Statement close on Thursday, June 25. The document can be viewed here.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

RECYCLING COLLECTION - GUNNEDAH
Monday 8 June 2020
Collection will be on Tuesday, 9 June 2020
Residents are requested to place their recycling bins out on Monday evening as collection will begin early on Tuesday.

RECYCLING COLLECTION - CURLEWIS
Monday 8 June 2020
Collection will be on Wednesday, 10 June 2020
Residents are requested to place their recycling bins out on Tuesday evening as collection will begin early on Wednesday.

Should you have any enquiries regarding the Recycling collection over the long weekend period please contact RECYCLIT on 67421522.

THERE WILL BE NO CHANGES TO THE HOUSEHOLD WASTE AND GREENWASTE COLLECTION

Please ensure bins are placed out the night before collection date, as contractors are not obliged to accept late bins. If you have any enquiries regarding these changes please contact Council’s Customer Services Team on 6740 2100

Eric Groth
General Manager

22 May, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council is planning to advance to the second stage of the COVID-19 Business Support Package and is inviting local businesses to help pave the way.

The initial COVID-19 Business Support Package, adopted at the April Ordinary Council Meeting, is progressing well with many initiatives rolled out and a COVID-19 specific round of the Business Partner Program open for applications.

The $1.6 million response included moving to freeze interest accrual against rates, fees and charges, a reduction in business fees and extension of existing grants programs to help businesses struggling due to COVID-19.

Council Manager of Economic Development Charlotte Hoddle said that following the successful rollout of the Support Phase, the second phase, the Recovery Phase will be targeted at assisting local businesses during their recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

 “For the next stage we are focusing on identifying what additional assistance businesses require as we move into the recovery phase of our crisis response. We want to hear directly from our local businesses about how the pandemic has affected them, and use this feedback to shape the next round of Council support,” Ms Hoddle said.

“While the Federal and State Government have introduced packages and subsidies to help, we are hoping to identify gaps where Council may have capacity to provide assistance.

“The first step in this process is geared towards gaining feedback from the community. We are inviting local businesses to participate in a survey to identify where they need support.

“Once this feedback is received, we will use it to tailor a recovery package to the needs of the Gunnedah community, helping to plan and refine ongoing response efforts.

“I encourage all business owners to complete the survey so we have broad representation of the needs of our diverse business community.”

The survey takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes to complete and will close on Wednesday June 3 2020.

Businesses that complete the survey will also go into a draw to win a $200 Gunny Money voucher. The survey is available at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/businesscovid

Gunnedah Shire Council has dedicated officers to assist businesses who are struggling at this challenging time. To get in touch with the Economic Development team phone (02) 6740 2100 or submit an online enquiry at www.gunnedah.nsw.com.au

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

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.