FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK By Cr DARRELL TIEMENS

October has been a bustling month, especially as we celebrate Small Business Month. I had the opportunity to attend numerous events and chat with many local business owners.

Last week, I was part of a workshop in Boggabri, led by the energetic Boggabri Chamber, focusing on the necessity of establishing a vision and strategic plan for small businesses.

My sincere congratulations to Gilly Goddard and the chamber volunteers for organising such an insightful event.

I’m keenly looking forward to tonight’s workshop in Wee Waa at the Imperial Hotel hosted by the Wee Waa Chamber, another endeavour aiming to bolster our local business ecosystem.

On another note, it was an honour to represent you all at the Narrabri Debutante Ball. Wearing the mayoral chains for the first time, I watched nine debutantes, and their partners take centre stage.

Kudos to Michelle Wheeler, Kim Owens, Lodge Namoi and of course all the parents and family members for a wellorganised evening. It’s heartening to see young people take an interest in traditions like debutante balls.

A few reminders:

If you know someone making an extraordinary contribution to our community, don’t forget to nominate them for the Narrabri Shire’s Australia Day Awards by October 30. Various categories including from Citizen of the Year to Community Arts and Cultural Development to Sporting.

Narrabri Shire Youth Council nominations have been extended until November 6.

Please visit the shire website for details.

Learn-to-swim lessons in Wee Waa will commence on 15th November. This is a great initiative by Wee Waa Swimming. Please book through the Narrabri Aquatic Centre on 6799 6782.

On the subject of swimming pools, the 25m indoor pool (all the other pools at the centre are open!) at the Narrabri Aquatic Centre is closed for repairs to the chlorination system for a week.

The 50m pool is still open of course!

The next ordinary council meeting takes place next Tuesday at 1pm in the Narrabri council chambers. Residents and ratepayers are very welcome to attend.

As we all prepare for the festive season, let’s remember to shop locally.

Not only are you supporting your local community, but I often find local businesses offer better value than their online counterparts.

Wishing everyone a wonderful week ahead.

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