Collins Park lighting funds discussed at Chamber of Commerce meeting

The Narrabri and District Chamber of Commerce held its monthly meeting on July 9, chaired by president Russell Stewart with 16 in attendance.

It was reported that the Collins Park lighting group, initiated by the late Trevor Druce has $15,000 remaining in the fund.

The committee is keen for the money to be directed, through the chamber, to the Yarrie Lake Trust to be used for improvements to the lake.

Lester Kelly addressed the meeting advising of the situation and John Clements moved the motion “that the Narrabri Chamber of Commerce agree to the request by the Collins Park Lighting Committee to receive the remaining funds on dissolution of the Collins Park Lighting Committee.

“These funds will be held by the Narrabri Chamber for works at Yarrie Lake by the Yarrie Lake Trust, priority to be given to consultancy fees on the bore project.

“Any expenditure is to be agreed by motion at the chamber.”

The motion was seconded by Tony Longworth and passed by the meeting.

Mr Stewart paid tribute to those who had worked on fundraising for the Collins Park lighting group in years gone by.

The chamber’s annual Business Awards dinner is being held on September 14 at The Crossing Theatre.

Mr Stewart urged members to submit their nomination forms for judging and book tickets for the event which is a highlight of the Narrabri calendar.

The annual Christmas Carnival is scheduled for Friday, December 13 and there will be a further late night shopping opportunity on December 19.

When questioned about the appointment of a new general manager to the Narrabri Shire council, Cr Clements advised the meeting that the council was holding an extraordinary meeting on July 22 to discuss this matter.

He also advised the council will be in caretaker mode in August leading up to the local council election on September 14 and the new general manager would be selected after a new council is appointed.

Abby McClure advised Brendan Child is the new NSW development manager for Santos.

Gilly Goddard reported on the Narrabri Shire Council’s plans to encourage shire businesses to get behind the Olympics.

With two locals, Shannan Davey and Laura Gourley competing, business owners were urged to decorate their windows in the spirit of the Olympics.

In response to a question from an attendee regarding the cleaning of the CBD footpaths, Ms Goddard said the footpath cleaning in Narrabri was nearing completion and will start in Wee Waa next with the aim of having cleaning done on a contract basis every six months.

Tony Longworth, a long-time member of the chamber, is celebrating 30 years in retail this year.

Tim Logan, in response to the closing of Namoi Dry Cleaners, is investigating his business becoming an agent for dry cleaners from another centre.

Mr Stewart said the chamber is happy to support this intention with a letter if need be.

The next chamber meeting will be held on August 13 with everyone invited to attend.