Arrival of winter a reminder of its difficulties

THE arrival of colder weather is a reminder that winter can be particularly difficult for older residents, people who are unwell and those living alone. I encourage everyone to check on neighbours, friends and relatives who may need a hand, a warm meal or simply some company. A small act of kindness can make a considerable difference.

Winter also brings an increased risk of house fires, particularly as heaters, fireplaces, electric blankets and other appliances are brought back into regular use. Please check that smoke alarms are working, keep clothing and furniture well away from heaters, avoid overloading power boards, and ensure fireplaces and chimneys are safe. A few simple precautions can prevent a tragedy.

At last week’s ordinary council meeting, council unanimously adopted its 2026–27 budget. This was not an easy budget to prepare. Council is dealing with substantial reductions in state and federal government grant funding, while the cost of delivering essential services continues to rise sharply.

Road construction materials, fuel, contractors, insurance, utilities and other operational costs have all increased considerably. These pressures mean council must make difficult decisions while continuing to maintain roads, water and sewer services, parks, pools, libraries and other facilities across a very large local government area. Despite these challenges, councillors supported a responsible budget focused on maintaining essential services and progressing important infrastructure.

Road maintenance continues across the shire, with grading, jet patching and hand patching scheduled on numerous rural and urban roads. The complete weekly works program is available on council’s website.

Construction of the new Violet Street Bridge is also progressing. Piling works are nearing completion, with further concrete and steelwork under way. The remaining old bridge piers are expected to be demolished in mid-July.

Planning for the Rangari Road upgrade is advancing, with construction of the Bayley Park Creek Causeway and associated works expected to begin in August.

Council also continues to closely monitor Narrabri’s water supply. The new Balonne Street water main has been completed, work is continuing to bring the new bore into production, and tender documents for the PFAS treatment plant are being reviewed. Daily monitoring shows reservoir levels remain stable, and routine testing confirms Narrabri’s drinking water meets the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

Several council planning and policy documents are currently on public exhibition until 16 July. Residents are encouraged to review them and provide feedback through council’s website.

As winter settles in, please remain safe, look out for one another and take particular care around home heating and fire safety.

DARRELL TIEMENS, MAYOR, NARRABRI SHIRE COUNCIL