Our community events made possible through hardwork and determination of volunteers

It was great to see so many in our community turn out to support both the Drovers Campfire in Boggabri and the Narrabri Show.

These community events would not be possible without the hard work and determination of their respective committees and all their hardworking volunteers.

We had a great time, so thank you!

The Wee Waa Show will be on later this year and is another not-to-be-missed event!

Last Monday, the general manager and directors of the shire walked us through the proposed budget for 2024/25 for the council.

The draft 2024/2025 Operational Plan and Budget includes the budget for both operational and capital projects, the rates’ structure, and proposed fees and charges for council facilities and services.

The draft budget and plans are essential for the continuous improvement of our shire. It’s noteworthy that Narrabri Shire is one of the few councils in our area that has not applied for a special rate variation (SRV) above the standard increase.

I encourage everyone in the community to review these documents and provide feedback to ensure our priorities are well-aligned.

There are several projects of community interest scheduled for the 2024/2025 financial year, including the commencement of works on the Boggabri Civic Precinct and the Wee Waa Community Centre, the installation of splash parks in Boggabri, Wee Waa, and Narrabri, and the upgrade of the Yarrie Lake Circuit.

I encourage you to have a look at the 2024/2025 Operational Plan and Budget on the council’s website and provide feedback.

Regarding feedback, there is a public open day next Wednesday, May 15, between 12 pm and 6 pm, at the site of the old NAB building in Wee Waa to view the options for the redevelopment of the Community and Business Centre (old NAB Building), enhancement of the central business district (CBD), and improvement of Dangar Park in Wee Waa.

I’d encourage residents to attend.

Later this week, the general manager of the shire and I will be attending a Country Mayors Association discussion about the financial sustainability of local councils across NSW.

It will be an important discussion, particularly as governments, both state and federal, shift costs back onto local communities such as ours. Watch this space.