Heartening to see so many people attend Remembrance Day commemorations in shire

It was heartening to see so many people attend our Remembrance Day services this year, with many across the shire pausing to honour those who served so that we may enjoy the freedoms we have today. This collective moment of reflection, whether at the service or in quiet pause, speaks volumes about our community’s respect and gratitude for those who sacrificed so much.

This Remembrance Day was also marked by the passing of our last local WWII veteran, John Collett, who passed away peacefully in Wee Waa last Monday at the age of 98. John’s passing on Remembrance Day itself seems a fitting farewell for a man dedicated to service. John served in Aitape and Wewak in Papua New Guinea during WWII, representing a generation that gave so selflessly for our nation.

As we remember our servicemen and women, please spare a thought for John and his family during this time. His legacy is a reminder of the courage and commitment of those who came before us, and his life a testament to the strength of our community.

Next week Wednesday, we have another ordinary council meeting at 5.30pm. I encourage residents to attend these important functions in our local democracy.

Last week, I had the pleasure of representing our shire council at the Gwabegar Public School’s centenary celebration. It was a wonderful day with a warm, welcoming community. Events like these remind us of the importance of supporting all our communities, from our smallest villages to our larger towns.

Later this week, I’ll be attending the Country Mayors Association conference and annual general meeting with our interim general manager. We have also arranged to meet with the Regional Roads Minister to discuss key funding opportunities, including much-needed support for Rangari Road and the outstanding $30 million in flood funding owed to our shire.

In local news, I’d like to extend congratulations to deputy mayor Cr Dickinson, who will be getting married this Saturday. Please join me in wishing him and his bride every happiness.

The recent emergence of bushfires around our shire is a timely reminder for all of us to be prepared. It’s essential that we encourage residents to have a bushfire action plan in place, especially as we move into summer.

Finally, significant media attention last week focused on our advocacy for health services across our shire. Although I was disappointed with Hunter New England Health’s response, I remain hopeful that we’ll soon see progress, particularly in securing additional services and equipment for Narrabri and Wee Waa Hospitals, particularly the provision of a doctor. Community frustration is understandable, and we will keep pushing for the level of support our residents deserve.

And as Christmas approaches, please do not forget to support our local Narrabri Shire businesses. There are so many great things to buy for loved ones, and each dollar spent here circulates around five times on average, helping our com