‘The community stands together through dark times’

Remembrance Day was observed across our Shire last Tuesday, with communities coming together to honour those who served and sacrificed for our freedom. I attended the Baan Baa event, while Councillor Brett Dickinson represented me at the Narrabri service with dignity and respect. Both services were well-attended and deeply moving, demonstrating that the spirit of remembrance remains strong throughout our region.

A few weeks ago, the Baan Baa community decided to hold a Remembrance Day ceremony for the first time in many years. This heartfelt initiative was spearheaded by Steve Eather, president of the Boggabri RSL Sub-branch, who did an excellent job leading the service and bringing the community together. Before the official proceedings began, Steve led the crowd in a moment of silence for the young girl who passed away last Friday night in such tragic circumstances. Her parents were present, and the entire gathering stood in quiet solidarity with them.

It was one of those moments where a small community’s empathy and compassion were on full display. My thoughts are also with the young train driver and all the frontline responders – including the SES, RFS, Fire and Rescue NSW, police, paramedics, and the dedicated hospital staff — who were affected by this tragedy. I spoke with the young girl’s parents after the service and conveyed the thoughts and prayers of the wider Narrabri Shire community. No words can heal such heartbreak, but the presence of neighbours, friends, and others made it clear that the community stands together through dark times.

Unfortunately, not everyone showed the same level of decency and restraint. In the days that followed, a few social media users made outrageous and deeply hurtful remarks about the incident without knowing any of the facts. These self-appointed online vigilantes are not helping anyone. Their words only add pain to families already enduring the unimaginable. I condemn this behaviour in the strongest terms.

In contrast, the professional journalists who covered the story have been respectful, factual, and compassionate. I commend their approach. This is precisely why trained reporters – who generally check their facts and usually adhere to ethical standards – are essential in times like these. I would much rather see professional journalism prevail than see falsehoods and speculation flourish online. Social media has its place, but when it comes to reporting tragedy, words carry real consequences. Our community deserves accuracy, empathy, and truth – not the noise of uninformed commentary.

While Remembrance Day and recent events have been heavy on the heart, our Shire continues to move forward with important work and positive developments that reflect our community’s resilience and focus on the future.

Council has just opened tenders for the expansion of the Narrabri Waste Management Facility – a major local project that will ensure the site continues to operate safely and efficiently for many years to come.

The upgrade includes two new waste cells, a leachate pond, sediment control systems, and supporting infrastructure. It is a significant investment in the future of waste management for our growing Shire, ensuring that we maintain high standards of environmental responsibility and community service. Tenders are open until Monday, November 24, 2025, and all details can be found on Council’s eTendering portal.

November is also National Asbestos Awareness Month – a timely reminder that asbestos remains a hidden danger in many homes built before 1990. Asbestos is generally regarded as safe if left undisturbed, but if damaged or handled incorrectly, it can release harmful fibres into the air. I strongly urge anyone planning renovations or demolition work to exercise caution. Never attempt to remove asbestos yourself; always engage a licensed professional who is trained to do so safely. More information is available at asbestosawareness.com.au.

As the Christmas period approaches, I encourage everyone to support local businesses across our towns and villages. Whether it is buying a gift from a local shop, dining at a café, or attending a community event, your support can make a real difference. Every purchase helps keep jobs, families, and opportunities within our Shire. It is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to strengthen our local economy and show pride in where we live.

Council is also calling for Expressions of Interest for several community committees and working groups. These include the Tourism Advisory Committee, the Seniors Festival Working Group, and the Crime Prevention Advisory Committee. Each of these groups plays a vital role in shaping community priorities, events, and programs that improve life across the Shire. If you have experience, ideas, or enthusiasm to contribute, I encourage you to apply. Details are available on Council’s website, and applications close later this month.

Through all of these efforts — from moments of solemn remembrance to the day-to-day work of improving our infrastructure and services — our Shire continues to demonstrate resilience, pride, and compassion. I was reminded at Baan Baa that it is in small acts of kindness and shared humanity that communities like ours find their greatest strength.