POP-UP COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINIC – 1st and 2nd DOSES - NO BOOKINGS NEEDED
Head down to Mitchell Hwy, Nevertire (Outside Nevertire Hotel), Warren.
When:
Tuesday 19 October, 10am - 12pm.
Remember to come prepared with food, drink and perhaps a portable chair, as there may be a queue. Depending on the weather, a hat & sunscreen may also be advisable.
Western NSW Local Health District are partnering with the Australian Defence Force to provide this clinic.
Eligibility:
The following people are eligible for vaccination at this clinic:
Pfizer will be available, for people aged 12 years and over.
AstraZeneca will be available, for people aged 18 years and over.
*** You will need to bring a form of identification and your Medicare card ***
REMINDER - If you are seeking a second dose, please bring along details/records of your first dose. Pfizer doses MUST be given at least 21 days apart and AstraZeneca at least 4-12 weeks apart.
NOTE - anyone aged 12-15 years MUST BE accompanied by their parent, guardian or nominated carer.
Have mobility/accessibility difficulties & can't get to a clinic? Phone 1800 684 523 & leave a message with your name, contact number & the town where the clinic is being held.
YOU MUST NOT ATTEND THIS VACCINATION CLINIC IF:
You are waiting on a COVID-19 test result (except if it was a surveillance test only).
You are a CONFIRMED close contact of a CONFIRMED positive COVID-19 case.
You are unwell. If you have any COVID symptoms, get tested & isolate until you receive a negative test result.
You have had ANY other vaccination (including flu) in the previous seven days.
Council encourages all eligible community members to utilise this service and continue to keep Warren Shire safe.
Council has been recently advised that it was successful in obtaining grant funding in round three of the State Government’s Fixing Local Roads Program. These funds will be applied as per the funding deed to the Ellengerah Road and the Old Warren Road.
In regard to the Ellengerah Road this will see construction of segments 22,24 and 26 meaning that the road will sealed for its entire route within the Warren Shire up to our eastern boundary with the Narromine Shire. In turn this will mean greater efficiencies for our road maintenance crews in that this is the last remaining piece of unsealed road in that part of the Warren Shire Local Government Area and once the project is completed the road will require minimal maintenance. The total cost of the Project is $846,000 of which $211,000 comes from the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
In regard to the Old Warren Road segments 26 and 28 will be sealed further extending the sealed length of that road. The total cost of the project is $1,679,000. Of that $420,000 has been provided by the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
Work continues to progress at the Carter Oval Youth Sports Precinct. Tenders have closed for the design, supply, installation and commissioning of LED sports lights at Carter Oval, with Council now undertaking due diligence prior to the acceptance of any tender.
Council is inviting the Nevertire Community to attend a community consultation evening at 5:30pm Wednesday, 27th October 2021 in the Nevertire Park (pending weather) on ideas for the Nevertire Water Reservoir Mural.
The Nevertire Water Reservoir is currently being refurbished and once this work is complete, the reservoir will become the canvas for a mural to celebrate the area.
The Nevertire Water Reservoir Mural project is part of a wider arts program for the Warren Shire through the Warren Public Arts Committee and is funded through the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3.
Council is also inviting the Warren Community to attend a community consultation evening at 5:30pm on Wednesday, 20th October 2021 in the Community Room at 115 Dubbo Street, Warren for community feedback and ideas regarding the Public Art on Private Property Mural Project.
Council wishes to advise that copies of Council’s Community Engagement Strategy and Communications and Engagement Policy will be on public exhibition until 4.00pm Thursday, 28th October. Comment is invited.
This will be the last “From the Mayor’s Desk” for the year as the regulated period for the 2021 Local Government Elections will commence from 6.00pm Monday, 25th October 2021. However, watch this space as Council’s General Manager, Gary Woodman will continue to keep the community informed with a new temporary column “Council Comment.”
Information for the Warren Shire Community regarding Warren Shire Council’s business operations with the lifting of the Stay-At-Home Public Health Order for parts of Regional NSW including the Warren Shire Local Government Area.
For information concerning the Coronavirus COVID-19, please contact the NSW Department of Health.
Warren Shire Council is able to resume some face-to-face services and in–person operations following the lifting of the Stay-At-Home Public Health Order for parts of Regional NSW, including the Warren Shire Local Government Area as of 12.01am Saturday 11th September 2021.
All Council employees will continue wearing masks when interacting with members of the public indoors and while working in shared, indoor spaces (including when sharing a vehicle). All customers are asked to wear masks if engaging with Council staff indoors.
Kindly continue using the QR check-in at all venues. As COVID-19 is still present in neighbouring communities, this will help with contact tracing, should it be required.
WARREN SHIRE OFFICE
Council's Administration Office, 115 Dubbo Street has re-opened for face-to-face contact from Monday 13th September 2021 at 8.30am. There will be a limit on the number of customers allowed within the building at the same time in order to comply with the ‘four square metre rule’. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. Please note signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Customer enquiries and requests for service can still be made by telephone to 02 6847 6600 or by email to council@warren.nsw.gov.au.
All customers will need to ensure that they are adhering to the Stay-At-Home Public Health Orders of your respective Local Government Area and only attend Council’s Office for essential business.
WARREN SERVICE NSW AGENCY
The Service NSW Agency has re-opened on Monday 13th September 2021 at 8:30am with a limit of three (3) customers within the Service NSW Agency/ Council Administration front foyer during these times. Kindly wait outside using the chairs provided and maintain social distancing while awaiting service. Please note signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. Using your online MyServiceNSW account or calling the Service NSW hotline on 13 77 88 are other options for service.
WARREN SHIRE LIBRARY
Warren Library has re-opened from Saturday 11th September 2021 at 10.00am with a limit on the number of people allowed inside the building. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. From 11th October 2021 unvaccinated adults (is more than 16 years of age and is not a fully vaccinated person) must not be on the premises. Attendees will be required to show evidence to staff of being fully vaccinated. Phone 02 6847 6656 if you need to make an enquiry.
Library Services for the non-vaccinated:
Care and Deliver – items ordered online, phone or email then posted to members;
Click and Collect – items ordered then collected from outside of library;
E Resources available via the library app or website; and
Wifi can be used from outside the library if necessary.
WARREN SPORTING & CULTURAL CENTRE
Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre including the Gym Facilities has re-opened from Saturday 11th September 2021 at 6.00am with a limit on the number of people allowed in the Gym area. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. From 11th October 2021 unvaccinated adults (is more than 16 years of age and is not a fully vaccinated person) must not be on the premises. Attendees will be required to show evidence to staff of being fully vaccinated. The rules of cleaning equipment after use and classes with a maximum of 20 people must be adhered to. Phone 02 6847 6670 if you need to make an enquiry.
WARREN SHOWGROUND/RACECOURSE
Mask wearing inside is mandatory. From 11th October 2021 unvaccinated adults (is more than 16 years of age and is not a fully vaccinated person) must not be on the premises. Attendees will be required to show evidence to staff of being fully vaccinated.
WARREN SHIRE DEPOT
Warren Shire Depot has re-opened from Monday 13th September 2021 at 7.00am. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside buildings is mandatory. Phone 02 6847 6647 if you need to make an enquiry.
HEAVY VEHICLE INSPECTION STATION (HVIS)
Transport for NSW will be undertaking pre-booked heavy vehicle safety inspections at the Warren Shire Depot from Monday, 20th September to Friday, 24th September 2021, Tuesday, 28th September and from the Tuesday, 5th October 2021 to Friday, 8th October 2021. Covid-19 safety measures will be in place by Transport for NSW. The Covid-19 Safety Plan must be adhered to.
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT WITHIN OUR PARKS AND GARDENS
All our Parks are open but currently cannot be used for Community Sport. Playground equipment within our parks and gardens re-opened on Saturday 11th September 2021 with appropriate signage in relation to Social Distancing. Council will continue to provide heavy cleaning of the playground equipment daily.
WARREN SKATE PARK AND WARREN SPLASH PARK
The Warren Skate Park and Warren Splash Park re-opened on Saturday 11th September 2021 with appropriate signage in relation to Social Distancing. Council will continue to provide heavy cleaning of the touchpoints on any equipment daily.
WARREN EWENMAR WASTE DEPOT
QR code check-in/out is required. Wear a mask and maintain social distancing.
WARREN GARBAGE PICK UP OPERATING AS USUAL
WARREN PUBLIC AMENITIES (PUBLIC TOILETS)
Open as usual but, will be subject to extra cleaning.
COUNCIL’S HEALTH AND BUILDING SURVEYOR, DEVELOPMENTCOMPLIANCE AND RANGER
Will continue to carry out regular duties, provided they are able to maintain appropriate social distancing and masks will be worn at all times. This will also be subject to Covid Safety Plans on building sites, and other Covid safe requirements of the Public Health Orders.
OUTDOOR WORKS PROGRAMS AND FACILITIES MAINTENANCE, (WATER, SEWERAGE, ROADS, PARKS AND FACILITIES)
Will continue wherever permissible, providing social distancing requirements can be maintained, including the 1 person per 4-square rule on sites.
CEMETERIES
Open as of Saturday 11th September 2021 with a funeral limit of 50 persons and appropriate social distancing.
WARREN WAR MEMORIAL SWIMMING POOL
Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool opened on Saturday, 2nd October 2021. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. From 11th October 2021 unvaccinated adults (is more than 16 years of age and is not a fully vaccinated person) must not be on the premises. Attendees will be required to show evidence to staff of being fully vaccinated. Phone 02 6847 6600 if you need to make an enquiry.
COUNCIL MEETING
Council Meetings are expected to be held in person in the Council Community Room, 115 Dubbo Street, Warren. Please note signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory.
VACATION CARE
Vacation Care at the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre is hoped to be programmed for early January 2022. Care will be prioritised to:
children of essential workers, including health care professionals;
vulnerable and disadvantaged children; and
to children who were previously enrolled if care is required.
All customers will need to ensure that they are adhering to the Stay-At-Home Public Health Orders of your respective Local Government Area and only attend Council’s Vacation Care if allowed.
All families will be required to contact the Health and Development Services Vacation Care Team on 0427 215 086 for bookings of your children(s).
Final arrangements will be advertised later in 2021.
Council’s staff are available to answer your calls between 8.30 am – 5.00 pm weekdays.
Council’s phone will be diverted to an on-call officer after normal office hours and weekends and public holidays. In the case of emergencies, please call 000.
We ask that the community be patient, remain attentive to social distancing, mask up and take your own precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Importantly get vaccinated as soon as you can.
Council will provide updates as circumstances change.
Covid Testing at the Warren Multi Purpose Health Service will be by a booked appointment with times between 2.00 pm and 3.00 pm, Monday to Friday. Please telephone ahead on 02 6847 5400 for an appointment, bookings are limited.
Please obey all road signs and speed limits.
Heavy vehicles and large motor vehicles will need to park away from the hospital and walk to the hospital and follow signage. There is no room for heavy and large vehicles to turn around on the hospital grounds.
Western NSW Local Health District are returning with the Australian Defence force to deliver another pop-up vaccinationclinic in Warren on Tuesday 12th October.
Who can receive a vaccine at this clinic?
Second doses of AstraZeneca - will be given by appointment/invitation only. People who received their first doses at the previous Warren ADF walk-in clinic will be contacted by text or telephone to confirm the location of the clinic and the date and time to attend for their second dose appointment. If people are unable to attend they will need to seek their second dose from an alternative provider.
No bookings needed for first doses.
Pfizer vaccine will be available at this clinic for those aged 12 years and over.
Anyone aged 12-15yrs - MUST BE accompanied by their parent, guardian or nominated carer.
We encourage students to take up this opportunity ahead of the return to face-to-face learning.
Those attending will need to bring a form of identification and where able, their Medicare card.
The queue may be long, so we encourage people to come prepared with food, drink, perhaps a portable chair, a hat & sunscreen.
Second dose clinics will be scheduled.
People MUST NOT ATTEND the clinic if they:
Are waiting on a COVID-19 test result (unless this was a surveillance test only and the person is not unwell).
Are a CONFIRMED close contact of a CONFIRMED positive COVID-19 case.
Are unwell. Anyone with COVID symptoms should get tested & isolate until they receive a negative test result.
Have had ANY other vaccination (including flu) in the previous seven days.
We have also posted information about this clinic on our Facebook page
If people have mobility/accessibility difficulties & can't get to a clinic, they can phone 1800 684 523 & leave a message with their name, contact number & the town the clinic is in. One of our friendly team will get in contact with them.
Warren Shire Council has engaged the community to review a draft Masterplan to revive Carter Oval and the Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool into a state-of-the-art sporting and recreational precinct for Warren Shire and surrounding areas.
One of many infrastructure upgrades planned for Warren Shire, the precinct will be a place to bring the community together through sport and activities from cricket, soccer and athletics to the skate park, bike training park, playground, water park, and barbecue and picnic area.
General Manager, Gary Woodman, says the proposed plan will see the area become a sporting and recreational hub designed with Shire youth at its heart.
“The redevelopment of the Carter Oval Youth Sporting Precinct including the Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool is an extremely important project, as the area will provide a place to build community connections and encourage more young people to participate in sporting activities,” says Mr Woodman.
The development of the area is taking a staged approach, with the skate park and water park both now complete, along with a dedicated area for picnics with barbecues installed.
The next stage of improvements focuses on a lighting upgrade for the venue with Council successful in the latest round of funding from the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program (Round 3) for the installation of modern LED fast-ball lighting. The lighting upgrade will improve access for sporting teams to extend training into the winter months and, a first for Carter Oval, begin hosting night-time cricket.
“Work has also commenced for the installation of drainage and irrigation for the soccer fields and junior cricket oval, construction of bus and car parking areas, development of a three-bay storage shed and perimeter fencing, all of which is funded under the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development ‘Improvement of Regional Structures’ program.
“The draft Masterplan is based on earlier community feedback and outlines planned funded future works and future works that are subject to funding, which aims to create a sporting and recreational precinct that incorporates state-of-the-art facilities and recreational activities for children and youth of all ages,” added Mr Woodman.
Council is seeking input from the community and user groups on the Carter Oval Youth Sporting Precinct including Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool Masterplan and is hoping to create a space that provides long-term benefits to Warren Shire residents.
Warren Shire Council recently adopted the Warren Public Arts Committee’s Warren Shire Public Arts Masterplan. Designed to involve the community in growing public art spaces and walking trails, the masterplan aims to put Warren Shire on the map as a destination for celebrating art.
Building on an already strong arts community, using public art in its varied forms from murals, sculptures, street and urban art to festivals and events will establish an art scene for both residents and visitors to enjoy.
Warren Shire Mayor, Councillor Milton Quigley, says the appeal of developing more public art across the Shire is to build on the strong sense of community pride in the area.
“We hope to grow our local arts content and use locations across Warren Shire as a platform to celebrate our community spirit.
“From showcasing Wayilwan inspired art to urban sculptures, we have plans for a diverse and unique art trail across the Shire,” says Councillor Quigley.
The first major developments for the masterplan include a series of murals across the region.
Refurbishment work is underway on the Nevertire Water Reservoir and once complete, the 21-metre-high tower will become the canvas for a mural inspired by ideas from the local community.
Warren Shire Council General Manager, Gary Woodman, says the Nevertire Water Reservoir Mural will create a landmark artwork to showcase the area.
“We have already seen some great community engagement around theme ideas for the mural that represent iconic Nevertire experiences.
“It will be an impressive feature that will no doubt attract visitors to the town,” says Mr Woodman.
Plans to create rural-urban art have also been put to the Warren Shire community as part of the Public Art on Private Property Murals project, with Council inviting ideas for themes and locations to transform assets into artwork.
Both the Nevertire Water Reservoir Mural and the Public Art on Private Property Murals project are funded through the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3 and are on public exhibition until 4pm Thursday, 11 November 2021.
“We want as many residents as possible to contribute to the development of public art in our Shire and open feedback and ideas through our public exhibition process.
“To be able to bring to life artwork inspired by our community across Warren Shire will create a huge sense of pride and ownership for everyone who contributed,” added Councillor Quigley.
All residents and stakeholders are invited to submit feedback on the Nevertire Water Reservoir Mural and Public Arts on Private Property Murals via:
Our latest edition of Council News is now available.
From the Mayor's Desk - September Council News
After such a fantastic community effort during the Regional NSW stay-at-home orders, Warren Shire benefited from an early easing of restrictions. I want to thank the community and all of our healthcare workers for their continued efforts to keep our Shire safe. We are currently one of the highest vaccinated regions across NSW, as of 23 September, Warren Shire had 90% of our eligible population with their first vaccination and 63% double vaccinated. These are vaccination rates that we can all be very proud of.
The easing of restrictions means we are now able to enjoy events as a community and this weekend sees an open day at ‘Burrima’ Boardwalk. On Sunday, 3 October, you can bring a picnic and enjoy the wildlife that calls Macquarie Marshes home. The Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool will also open for the season this weekend.
Enjoy these times as a community and please continue to keep each other safe, follow the COVID-19 requirements for all venues and maintain a habit of socially distancing when out and about.
Patricia Irving has lived by her father’s advice of, “To those who are given, of much is expected”.
As the driving force behind implementing initiatives such as the Blood Bank Bus to Dubbo, recycling in the Shire and the Warren schools public speaking contests. Along with many years of advocating for rural women, Patricia’s life is full of stories of contribution to the community.
We spoke to Patricia to hear about her involvement in the Warren Shire community over the years.
A usual morning looks like?
I am somewhat elderly and live alone, and have never been a morning person, so mornings are fairly slow. I always listen to the morning radio as news and current affairs are a big interest, and I love the wild birds which come for a feed on the patio outside. Followed by answering emails, and phone calls from friends and family members.
I’m most proud about?
My wonderful family, all good citizens, contributing to their communities and so caring of me.
Favourite place in Warren Shire?
My home, on our land 15kms from Warren.
On the weekend you can find me?
At the local Presbyterian Church service, then playing scrabble with a friend.
3 words that sum up living in Warren Shire?
A lucky place.
Patricia’s dedication to the community…
Can you tell us a bit about your journey, some of the highlights of your life?
I trained in Sydney as a Mothercraft nurse, then met and married my marvellous husband, who always supported me wholeheartedly in anything I did. We moved to Warren Shire in 1956. I am passionate about living and working on the land, so I have always helped with the sheep and cattle, riding horses and being involved in everything. We were blessed with four healthy children and in the 80s, with only the youngest still at school, I was able to fulfil my dream of going to university as an external student, (no big deal now with technology but it was rare then) eventually graduating with two degrees, which was not common for a woman in those days. It filled me with great satisfaction and experience.
You are such a dedicated member of the community, what drives your passion and community spirit?
My late father always said, “To those who are given, of much is expected”. I believe that I have been very fortunate in my life and that ‘community’, in all its forms, should be encouraged and enhanced. Any skills that I have been given should be used to that end.
As a member of the Country Women’s Association (CWA), you started the public speaking contests between our local schools, can you share the idea behind this and some of the highlights over the time it’s been running?
I was a public speaking/debating adjudicator and in that role was involved in the local Lions Club Youth of the Year Program. I knew the value of being able to present ideas clearly and with confidence, so with the help of CWA members and the schools, a yearly competition was organised.
At this time there was also a public speaking competition for students being run by the Group CWAs in the wider Central West area, so eventually ours joined up with that. I am delighted to see that it is still being promoted enthusiastically in our local schools, with workshops and encouragement.
You were the driving force behind the Blood Bank Bus to Dubbo, and Recycling Committee as well as State Vice President of the CWA, among many other things, can you share more about the positive impact these played on the community?
I was a blood donor for many years and felt that there were many people in Warren who would be donors if they could get to the Blood Bank in Dubbo. So, after a lot of logistical problems, and support from folk who believed in the importance of this project, it finally came to fruition. It is still going and now run by other dedicated community members.
Believing that recycling was the way of the future, I teamed up with a member of the Shire Council to start a recycling program. We formed a roster of members from local groups and organisations who went around the streets on Saturdays, collecting chaff bags of bottles that were left out on the footpaths by householders. These were then deposited in large containers at the local garbage tip and eventually taken to a recycling deposit elsewhere in the State. Only bottles at that stage, but at least it was a start!
In my role as a State Vice President of the Country Women’s Association (CWA), I was the CWA representative on the advisory body of the Rural Women’s Network, which lobbied governments on behalf of rural women, and organised a yearly women’s gathering in towns State-wide. They were wonderful occasions, with guest speakers, workshops, displays and great camaraderie. I have attended many and even learnt belly dancing at one!
Ever since coming to Warren, I have been very involved with the Warren Show. In earlier years as a ring steward, pavilion steward and now proud to be a patron. My husband organised the Show Ball (no longer held, sadly!) and was chief ring steward. We were strong supporters of the whole event, believing that it was a wonderful community gathering, and insisting that all our family members put something in the pavilion.
The Multi-Purpose Health Service (MPHS) is currently playing an important role in the Shire’s response to COVID-19, what was your involvement in the MPHS and does a bring a sense of pride in the contribution it has to the community?
I was asked to join the MPHS committee when its forerunner, the Hospital Board, was planning the current structure and it was felt that some more women were needed. I was on the committee for 12 years and really enjoyed my time. I feel that we made a great contribution to setting up the important role which it plays in the community today.
What keeps you busy now?
Contacting friends and extended family, both around Warren and elsewhere, by phone and email. Walking, reading, and watching late-night TV. And I do enjoy proofreading the Warren Weekly each week before it goes to print.
What is a message you would love the Warren Shire community to hear?
Warren has so much to offer. Great sporting facilities, schools, so much for kids to be involved in like dance, art, music, so many different sports. It is a wonderful caring community. Enjoy it and contribute where you can. There is sure to be an organisation or group which would welcome your interest and help, even in a small way. Both you and it would benefit.
To nominate a Warren Shire woman to be featured in this series, email media@warren.nsw.gov.au
Has your community been affected by the impacts of drought? You could be eligible to apply for the Future Drought Fund’s Networks to Build Drought Resilience grant program, which is being run by FRRR.
This grant program can support projects such as:
🔸 Creating or strengthening networks, such as farmers, young-farmers, or women in agriculture
🔸 Training or upskilling of community organisation members to support community driven projects
🔸 Hosting community events that bring the community together to build social connection
🔸 Small-scale upgrades to facilities that make it easier for the community to come together.
Not sure if your project would be eligible?
FRRR is hosting two free online Grantseeker Workshops on Tuesday, 5 October. The workshops will share more information about the program, and also provide practical grant-writing tips to help community groups confidently apply for the grant. After the session, you’ll also be able to book in for a one-on-one discussion.
The workshops will be held at 11:00 AM AEDT or 7:00 PM AEDT. Note, you only need to attend one session, as they are the same.
Work continues to improve the Warren Showground Racecourse, with electrical facility upgrades in Showies and Cattleman’s Camping Areas now complete. These upgrades were funded through the NSW Showground Stimulus Program Phase 2.
Additional works are underway to complete the $841,500 of projects funded through the NSW Government’s Showground Stimulus Funding Program, Phase 2C. Throughout October and November work will commence to replace amenities in the Cattleman’s and Horse Sports Camping Area, renovate the men’s amenities in the Main Pavilion and the amenities in the Centre Arena, install a new septic tank for the Main Pavilion amenities and a new septic tank with a grease trap for canteen waste in the Centre Arena, and work to renew all concrete and asphalt floors. Quotations are also being obtained for re-fencing of the Showground perimeter.
These upgrades across Warren Showground Racecourse are designed to improve the experience for users and visitors and continue its standing as the ‘Randwick of the West’.
Warren Shire Council meets on the fourth Thursday of every month, with the exception of November, which is replaced with a meeting on the first Thursday of December.
Please find following a selection of highlights from this month’s meeting:
REPORTS OF THE GENERAL MANAGER
Outstanding Reports Checklist – Item 1
Local Government Union Picnic Day
Due to the COVID-19 stay-at-home order, the Local Government Picnic Day has been postponed to Friday, 1 October 2021. Most services will not be affected except Service NSW that will not be available on this day.
Victoria Oval and Oxley Park Plan of Management
Final schematic of Victoria Park, including transfer of sporting assets to Carter Oval, is complete and the Draft Plan of Management is now on public exhibition. Council is inviting community and stakeholder feedback until 4pm, Thursday 28 October. Submit feedback via:
Upgrades to the final works for Warren Airport have been delayed due to rainfall and the area holding water, with the contractor now scheduled to complete the remaining drainage works in October. In addition, quotations received for construction of the new terminal building were all above budget therefore a redesign of the concrete slab was required, and re-quoting of the construction and final re-costing are underway.
Warren, Nevertire and Collie Village Enhancements
A works program is being rescoped for the $1.2M village enhancements for Warren, Nevertire and Collie. The works program currently does not include $395,800 for the reconstruction of the Warren roundabout that will be funded by Transport for NSW.
Carter Oval Youth Sports Precinct including Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool
Upgrade works are progressing with initial pathways installed between sports areas, irrigation completed on Carter Oval, development of the soccer fields have commenced and construction of the Cricket field due to be completed by the end of September. In addition, the Little A’s, Cricket and Soccer storage facilities have been re-quoted, to be ordered by the end of September 2021.
The installation of four lighting towers and LED lights have been advertised on Tenderlink with the tender closing on 13 October. These works are funded through the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3.
The Carter Oval Youth Sports Precinct including Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool Draft Masterplan is now on public exhibition. Council is inviting all interested community and stakeholders to submit feedback via:
Electrical facility upgrades funded through the NSW Showground Stimulus Program Phase 2 are complete with stage one switchboards at Showies Camping Area installed and Cattleman’s Camping Area electrical upgrades finalised.
The $841,500 of projects funded through the NSW Government’s Showground Stimulus Funding Program, Phase 2C are progressing with quotes obtained and preparations for works underway:
Work to replace amenities in the Cattleman’s and Horse Sports Camping Area will commence in October 2021;
Renovation to the men’s amenities in the Main Pavilion will commence in November 2021;
Installation of a new septic tank for the Main Pavilion amenities will commence in September / October 2021;
Renovations of the amenities in the Centre Arena are scheduled to be completed by the end of September 2021;
Installation of a new septic tank with a grease trap for the canteen waste in the Centre Arena is scheduled to be completed by the end of September 2021;
Work to renew all concrete and asphalt floors has commenced; and
Quotes are currently being obtained from local suppliers and rural fencing contractors for refencing of the Showground perimeter.
In addition, rescoping of the Warren Showground Racecourse Complex Improvement Program is currently being developed to include accessible amenities and the replacement of doors and windows in the GBS Faulkiner Lounge, and refurbishment and painting of the Grandstand.
Warren Shire Mural Program
The Warren Shire Mural Program, funded under the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3, is underway. Final concept designs for the $100,000 funded Stafford Street Water Tower mural was communicated to the community throughout September. Final mural painting quotes have been finalised with artist James Middleton from Paint The Town Murals engaged and the mural is expected to be completed by the end of November 2021.
Community engagement has commenced for the Nevertire Water Tower mural, with Council inviting community and stakeholder design theme ideas until 4pm, Thursday 11 November 2021 by submitting feedback via:
A community engagement plan is being finalised for the Warren Public Art on Private Property murals.
Warren Sewerage Treatment Plant Upgrade
Despite delays due to wet weather, over 88% of the $6.15M Warren Sewerage Treatment project is now complete. Electricity supply commenced in September however due to lack of availability, a 100KVA transformer is expected to be installed in late October 2021.
Meeting Schedule until Council End of Term and initial New Council – Item 4
In line with the Local Government Elections to be held on 4 December, Council meetings will follow a revised schedule until the new Council is in place:
8.30am on Thursday, 28 October 2021
2.00pm on Thursday, 2 December 2021
8.30am on Tuesday, 11 January 2022.
Christmas Closure – Item 6
The Council Office, Service NSW Agency, Library and Works Depot will be closed for the Christmas period from close of business Friday, 24 December 2021 and re-opening on Tuesday, 4 January 2022.
REPORTS OF THE DIVISIONAL MANAGER FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
Financial Assistance Grant – Item 5
Council has received $3,266,745.00 from the Local Government Grants Commission’s 2021/2022 Financial Grant allocation. This amount represents a 7.51% ($228,199.00) increase on the actual grant received for 2020/2021.
Further information and data on grants received over the last 10 years can be viewed on the WSC September Business Paper
REPORT OF THE DIVISIONAL MANAGER ENGINEERING SERVICES
Flood damage to Quigley Carroll Road – maintenance grading
Flood damage to Carinda Road – shoulder grading
Flood damage to Cullemburrawang Road – maintenance grading
Flood damage to Pigeonbah Road – maintenance grading
Flood damage to Wonbobbie Road – maintenance grading
Flood damage to Cathundral-Bogan Road – maintenance grading
Road maintenance and construction schedule for October and November:
Maintenance grade on the following roads in October:
Cremorne Road
Billybingbone Road
Gradery Lane
Maintenance grade on Gibsons Way throughout October and November.
Construction on Ellengerah Road throughout October and November.
Maintenance grade on the following roads in November:
Heatherbrae Road
Elsinore Road
Booka Road
Hatton Road
Mannix Road
Road maintenance works may be subject to change with any inclement weather.
All works listed are in addition to the regular maintenance, patching, edge repairs, slashing and mowing works carried out across all Council facilities.
Council has also received detailed traffic classifier reports for some Shire roads. To view these in full or for further details on current and future road works in Warren Shire view: WSC September Business Paper.
Works Progress Report: Town Services – Item 2
Warren Lawn Cemetery upgrade The new amenities facility is now open to the public between 6am to 6pm daily. Further upgrade work continues, with the extension of the river water main for the future lawn cemetery expansion to be finalised later in the year. The development of a Cemetery Masterplan is in progress.
Nevertire Reservoir Refurbishment The reservoir refurbishment continues, with the roof structure now removed, internal abrasive blasting underway, and external spot priming and topcoats applied. Community consultation has commenced for the reservoir’s mural and further community engagement will take place over the next month.
Oxley Park River Water Pumping Station
Local business Ryan Manson Engineering is carrying out the fabrication and installation works and the new pumps have arrived. Due to the weather and river height, these works are now expected to be complete in October 2021.
Warren and Nevertire Sewer
Quotation documents are currently being developed for CCTV and smoke testing of the sewer at Warren and Nevertire.
REPORT OF THE MANAGER HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
Works Progress Report – Item 2
A number of Warren Support Services (previously Community Builders Grant and Early Intervention Placement Prevention) Service Programs are underway, including:
The Outback Arts’ Aboriginal Cultural Art, Ceramics and Mentoring;
Warren Youth Support Group;
Final designs complete and works program to be determined for the construction of the Waste Transfer Station at Ewenmar Waste Depot;
Works program to be determined for completion of the Tiger Bay Wetlands Walkway, funded through the Central West Councils Environment and Waterways Alliance 2021 Small Grants;
Targeted Early Intervention programs with the Warren Youth Support Group;
Warren Central School’s Music Wellbeing Program; and
Works programs underway for double access gates, and shelving and concreting to be complete at the Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool before the season opening on 2 October 2021.
POLICY REPORTS OF THE GENERAL MANAGER AND MANAGER HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
Council has supported the public exhibition and adoption of three policies:
Amendments to the Procurement and Disposal Policy to allow for timely, accurate and detailed reporting;
Adoption of a Communications and Engagement Policy and Community Engagement Strategy to ensure a consistent and collaborative framework for community consultation; and
Amendments to the Community Awareness – Activity Development Policy 2018 to ensure more effective and efficient processes and community consultation for proposed developments within residential zones.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
MANEX
Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Grants Phase 3
Council received $1,310,516 in funding through the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Grants Phase 3. $1,000,000 will be used for works on roads and Council are currently considering a number of community projects for the remaining $310,516.
Grant Applications
Council is preparing grant applications to the Regional Sports Facility Fund for the Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool amenities, kiosk and clubhouse; Carter Oval Youth Sports Precinct project; and Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre change room facilities.
A grant application is also in progress to the Murray-Darling Healthy Rivers Program for:
Warren Sewerage Treatment Plant UV and Reed Bed Construction for Tiger Bay Wildlife Reserve;
Lower Weir Reconstruction and Fish Passage Investigation and full design; and
Warren Gross Pollutant Trap Installation.
Council’s Community Room Construction and Administration Refurbishment Official Opening
The official opening of Council’s new Community Room and Administration Refurbishment is scheduled for 2 December 2021, dependant on any COVID-19 restrictions.
Information for the Warren Shire Community regarding Warren Shire Council’s business operations with the lifting of the Stay-At-Home Public Health Order for parts of Regional NSW including the Warren Shire Local Government Area.
For information concerning COVID-19, please contact NSW Health.
Warren Shire Council is able to resume some face-to-face services and in–person operations following the lifting of the Stay-At-Home Public Health Order for parts of Regional NSW, including the Warren Shire Local Government Area as of 12.01am Saturday 11th September, 2021.
All Council employees will continue wearing masks when interacting with members of the public indoors and while working in shared, indoor spaces (including when sharing a vehicle). All customers are asked to wear masks if engaging with Council staff indoors.
Kindly continue using the QR check-in at all venues. As COVID-19 is still present in neighbouring communities, this will help with contact tracing, should it be required.
WARREN SHIRE OFFICE
Council's Administration Office, 115 Dubbo Street has re-opened for face-to-face contact from Monday 13th September 2021 at 8.30am. There will be a limit on the number of customers allowed within the building at the same time in order to comply with the ‘four square metre rule’. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. Please note signage at the entrance. QR code check in/out is required. Customer enquiries and requests for service can still be made by telephone to 02 6847 6600 or by email to council@warren.nsw.gov.au.
All customers will need to ensure that they are adhering to the Stay-At-Home Public Health Orders of your respective Local Government Area and only attend Council’s Office for essential business.
WARREN SERVICE NSW AGENCY
The Service NSW Agency has re-opened on Monday 13th September 2021 at 8:30am with a limit of three (3) customers within the Service NSW Agency/ Council Administration front foyer during these times. Kindly wait outside using the chairs provided and maintain social distancing while awaiting service. Please note signage at the entrance. QR code check in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. Using your online MyServiceNSW account or calling the Service NSW hotline on 13 77 88 are other options for service.
WARREN SHIRE LIBRARY
Warren Library has re-opened from Saturday 11th September 2021 at 10.00am with a limit on the number of people allowed inside the building. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. Phone 02 6847 6656 if you need to make an enquiry.
WARREN SPORTING & CULTURAL CENTRE
Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre including the Gym Facilities has re-opened from Saturday 11th September 2021 at 6.00am with a limit on the number of people allowed in the Gym area. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. The rules of cleaning equipment after use and classes with a maximum of 20 people must be adhered to. Phone 02 6847 6670 if you need to make an enquiry.
WARREN SHIRE DEPOT
Warren Shire Depot has re-opened from Monday 13th September 2021 at 7.00am. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside buildings is mandatory. Phone 02 6847 6647 if you need to make an enquiry.
HEAVY VEHICLE INSPECTION STATION (HVIS)
Transport for NSW will be undertaking pre-booked heavy vehicle safety inspections at the Warren Shire Depot from Monday, 20th September to Friday, 24th September 2021, Tuesday, 28th September and from Tuesday, 5th October 2021 to Friday, 8th October 2021. Covid-19 safety measures will be in place by Transport for NSW. The Covid-19 Safety Plan must be adhered to.
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT WITHIN OUR PARKS AND GARDENS
All our Parks are open but currently cannot be used for Community Sport. Playground equipment within our parks and gardens re-opened on Saturday 11th September 2021 with appropriate signage in relation to Social Distancing. Council will continue to provide heavy cleaning of the playground equipment daily.
WARREN SKATE PARK AND WARREN SPLASH PARK
The Warren Skate Park and Warren Splash Park reopened on Saturday 11th September 2021 with appropriate signage in relation to Social Distancing. Council will continue to provide heavy cleaning of the touchpoints on any equipment daily.
WARREN EWENMAR WASTE DEPOT
QR code check-in/out is required. Wear a mask and maintain social distancing.
WARREN GARBAGE PICK UP OPERATING AS USUAL WARREN PUBLIC AMENITIES (PUBLIC TOILETS)
Open as usual but, will be subject to extra cleaning.
COUNCIL’S HEALTH AND BUILDING SURVEYOR, DEVELOPMENT COMPLIANCE AND RANGER
Will continue to carry out regular duties, provided they are able to maintain appropriate social distancing and masks will be worn at all times. This will also be subject to Covid Safety Plans on building sites, and other Covid safe requirements of the Public Health Orders.
OUTDOOR WORKS PROGRAMS AND FACILITIES MAINTENANCE, (WATER, SEWERAGE, ROADS, PARKS AND FACILITIES)
Will continue wherever permissible, providing social distancing requirements can be maintained, including the 1 person per 4-square rule on sites.
CEMETERIES
Open as of Saturday 11th September 2021 with a funeral limit of 50 persons and appropriate social distancing.
WARREN WAR MEMORIAL SWIMMING POOL
Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool is expected to open Saturday, 2nd October 2021. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check in/out is required. Phone 02 6847 6600 if you need to make an enquiry.
COUNCIL MEETING
Council Meetings are expected to be held in person in the Council Community Room, 115 Dubbo Street, Warren. Please note signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory.
VACATION CARE
Vacation Care at the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre is programmed for two (2) weeks from Monday 20th September 2021 to Friday 1st October 2021. Care will be prioritised to:
children of essential workers, including health care professionals;
vulnerable and disadvantaged children; and
to children who were previously enrolled if care is required.
All customers will need to ensure that they are adhering to the Stay-At-Home Public Health Orders of your respective Local Government Area and only attend Council’s Vacation Care if allowed.
All families are required to contact the Health and Development Services Vacation Care Team on 0427 215 086 for bookings of your children(s).
Council can be contacted by: Phone: 02 6847 6600 | Email: council@warren.nsw.gov.au
A reminder that payments to Council can be made by any of the following means:
Council’s staff are available to answer your calls between 8.30 am – 5.00 pm weekdays.
Council’s phone will be diverted to an on-call officer after normal office hours and weekends and public holidays. In the case of emergencies, please call 000.
We ask that the community be patient, remain attentive to social distancing, mask up and take your own precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Importantly get vaccinated as soon as you can.
Council will provide updates as circumstances change.
Covid Testing at the Warren Multi-Purpose Health Service will be by a booked appointment with times between 2.00 pm and 3.00 pm, Monday to Friday. Please telephone ahead on 02 6847 5400 for an appointment, bookings are limited.
Please obey all road signs and speed limits.
Heavy vehicles and large motor vehicles will need to park away from the hospital and walk to the hospital and follow signage. There is no room for heavy and large vehicles to turn around on the hospital grounds.
This page will be continually updated with project information and progress.
The Carter Oval Youth Sports Precinct including Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool Draft Masterplan has been designed to create an area that brings the community together through sports and activities with a focus on our youth.
Council has developed a new draft masterplan which includes finished works, planned funded works and future works that are subject to funding.
Based on earlier community feedback regarding the precinct, two major youth projects have been completed. Funded under the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program - Improvement of Regional Structures, the Skate Park was opened in January 2020. This was followed by the opening of the Splash Park in early 2021, funded under Round 3 of the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Preparation work has now commenced to upgrade the soccer, cricket and athletic fields, with a local Shire business undertaking survey and earthworks. Funding has been received for a number of improvements which will take place over the coming months, which include:
Funding from the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development ‘Improvement of Regional Structures’ program for:
Installation of drainage and irrigation for the soccer fields and junior cricket oval;
Bus and car parking;
Construction of a three-bay storage shed; and
Fencing.
Funding from the Australian Government’s Drought Communities Program Round 2 and Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Round 3 for installation of LED sports lighting for the senior cricket pitch
Funding from the Cricket Legacy Fund for cricket practice nets
Funding from the Australian Government’s Drought Communities Round 2 and NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership for Splash Park shade sails
Funding from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Round 2 for Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool upgrade
Funding from the Foundation for Regional Rural Renewal Fund for the provision of a swimming pool lift.
Planned future works, subject to funding, includes new kiosks, additional amenities, and a bike training track for young children.
The following draft masterplan details the full scope of current and future works.
The Energy Corporation of NSW is hosting two online workshops to explain how the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone will operate and what this means for landholders and farmers in the Central-West Orana region. These workshops are scheduled to take place on 30 September 2021 (10am - 11:30am) and 1 October 2021 (10am - 11:30am).
The workshops will include presentations from regulators and subject matter experts on the following topics:
What is a Renewable Energy Zone and how does it influence land use planning in my area?
How are projects in a Renewable Energy Zone assessed under the NSW Planning System?
What steps do developers take when planning a large-scale renewable energy project?
What types of impacts do renewable energy projects have and how are these managed?
I am interested in hosting a project. How should I negotiate with developers?
Can hosting or being a neighbour to a renewable energy project affect my insurances, land rates or agricultural practices?
What are shared community benefits and how can I be involved?
Are there practical ways for energy generation and agriculture to coexist?
The Australian Defence Force / Western NSW Local Health District second dose vaccination clinics will be in Warren on 16 September – 17 September 2021.
This clinic is by invitation only for all persons who received their first vaccination at the pop-up clinic on 23 & 24 August.
Where: Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre, Udora Road, Warren
Details:
How will it run?
Peoplewho received their first Pfizer vaccination at the Warren ADF walk-in clinic on Monday 23 August & Tuesday 24 August will be contacted by Western NSW Local Health District by either text or telephone to confirm:
Their second dose.
The location of the clinic and;
Date and time to attend the clinic.
If people are unable to attend they will need to seek their second dose from an alternative provider.
REMINDER Pfizer doses MUST be given at least 21 days apart.
People must not attend the clinic if they:
Are waiting on a COVID-19 test result.
Are a CONFIRMED close contact of a CONFIRMED positive COVID-19 case.
Are unwell. Anyone with COVID symptoms should get tested & isolate until they receive a negative test result.
Have had ANY other vaccination (including flu) in the previous seven days.
People who received AstraZeneca at the Warren ADF walk-in clinic on Monday 23 August & Tuesday 24 August will also be contacted by our team with advice on how to receive their second dose of the vaccine, in line with the 4 – 12 week interval. Closer to their second dose date, people will be contacted either by text or telephone to confirm:
Their second dose.
Where and when they will receive their second dose.
It was gratifying to have the Stay-at-Home Public Health Order for the Warren Shire Council Local Government Area as well as some other parts of regional NSW lifted as of 12.01 am, Saturday 11th September 2021. It reflects our ability as a community to remain Covid-19 free for the duration of the order. Other neighbouring Council areas have not been as fortunate. Thank you all for being so vigilant in adhering to the rules during the Stay-at-Home period.
Now however is not the time for complacency. We need to continue to be vigilant and obey the relevant Public Heath Orders including wearing masks indoors and obeying the four square metre rule. To this end, you should enter the Local Government Areas that are still subject to Stay-at-Home Orders only if the travel is essential. These areas include but are not limited to the Dubbo, Narromine, Gilgandra and Bogan (Nyngan) Local Government Areas. It would be devastating for Covid-19 to emerge in our community now that we have gained a small respite in restrictions.
We have received the final confirmation from the Western NSW Local Health District that the Warren Second Dose ADF/WNSWLHD COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic on Thursday/Friday 16/17 September 2021 will be going ahead.
Relevant information is as follows:
Location will be the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre, Udora Road, Warren;
Will be for returnees from the first clinic held on the 23-24 August 2021 only;
Will only be for persons who received the Pfizer vaccination on the 23-24 August 2021;
It will not be for persons who received the AstraZenca vaccination at the last clinic; and
Text messages will be sent to all attendees who received the Pfizer vaccination, giving details of the appropriate time to attend this second clinic (attendees have started to receive these text messages).
The completion of this round of second doses will further limit the potential for Covid-19 to occur in our community.
I urge anyone who has not been vaccinated to do so not only for their own well-being but for the well-being and safety of their family, friends and indeed the whole shire community. Vaccination appointments can be made by contacting the Warren Family Medical Centre (RaRMS Health) on 02 68474326 or the Warren Pharmacy on 02 68474154.
Please get tested if you have any symptoms that are potentially Covid-19 related. Covid Testing at the Warren Multi-Purpose Health Service will continue to be available. Appointment times are Monday to Friday between 2.00 pm and 3.00 pm. Please telephone ahead on 02 6847 5400 for an appointment.
With the lifting of the Stay-at-Home Orders Council is able to resume some face-to-face services and in-person operations. Full details are available on Council’s website and Facebook page.
Information for the Warren Shire Community regarding Warren Shire Council’s business operations with the lifting of the Stay-At-Home Public Health Order for parts of Regional NSW including the Warren Shire Local Government Area.
For information concerning the Coronavirus COVID-19, please contact the NSW Health.
Warren Shire Council is able to resume some face-to-face services and in–person operations following the lifting of the Stay-At-Home Public Health Order for parts of Regional NSW, including the Warren Shire Local Government Area as of 12.01am Saturday, 11 September 2021.
All Council employees will continue wearing masks when interacting with members of the public indoors and while working in shared, indoor spaces (including when sharing a vehicle). All customers are asked to wear masks if engaging with Council staff indoors.
Kindly continue using the QR check-in at all venues. As COVID-19 is still present in neighbouring communities, this will help with contact tracing, should it be required.
WARREN SHIRE OFFICE
Council's Administration Office, 115 Dubbo Street will be open for face-to-face contact from Monday 13 September 2021 at 8.30am. There will be a limit on the number of customers allowed within the building at the same time in order to comply with the ‘four square metre rule’. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. Please note signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Customer enquiries and requests for service can still be made by telephone to 02 6847 6600 or by email to council@warren.nsw.gov.au.
All customers will need to ensure that they are adhering to the Stay-At-Home Public Health Orders of your respective Local Government Area and only attend Council’s Office for essential business.
WARREN SERVICE NSW AGENCY
The Service NSW Agency will re-open Monday 13 September 2021 at 8:30am with a limit of three (3) customers within the Service NSW Agency/ Council Administration front foyer during these times. Kindly wait outside using the chairs provided and maintain social distancing while awaiting service. Please note signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. Using your online MyServiceNSW account or calling the Service NSW hotline on 13 77 88 are other options for service.
WARREN SHIRE LIBRARY
Warren Library will re-open from Saturday 11 September 2021 at 10.00am with a limit on the number of people allowed inside the building. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. Phone 02 6847 6656 if you need to make an enquiry.
WARREN SPORTING & CULTURAL CENTRE
Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre including the Gym Facilities will re-open from Saturday 11 September 2021 at 6.00am with a limit on the number of people allowed in the Gym area. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. The rules of cleaning equipment after use and classes with a maximum of 20 people must be adhered to. Phone 02 6847 6670 if you need to make an enquiry.
The Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre will be closed to normal public use during the Covid Vaccination Clinic being undertaken on Thursday/Friday 16/17 September 2021 between the hours of 8:00am to 6:00pm.
WARREN SHIRE DEPOT
Warren Shire Depot will re-open from Monday 13 September 2021 at 7.00am. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside buildings is mandatory. Phone 02 6847 6647 if you need to make an enquiry.
HEAVY VEHICLE INSPECTION STATION (HVIS)
Transport for NSW will be undertaking pre-booked heavy vehicle safety inspections at the Warren Shire Depot from Monday, 20 September to Friday, 24 September 2021. Covid-19 safety measures will be in place by Transport for NSW. The Covid-19 Safety Plan must be adhered to.
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT WITHIN OUR PARKS AND GARDENS
All our Parks are open but currently cannot be used for Community Sport. Playground equipment within our parks and gardens will progressively be opened on Saturday 11 September 2021 with appropriate signage in relation to Social Distancing. Council will continue to provide heavy cleaning of the playground equipment daily.
WARREN SKATE PARK AND WARREN SPLASH PARK
The Warren Skate Park and Warren Splash Park will progressively be opened on Saturday 11 September 2021 with appropriate signage in relation to Social Distancing. Council will continue to provide heavy cleaning of the touchpoints on any equipment daily.
WARREN EWENMAR WASTE DEPOT
QR code check-in/out is required. Wear a mask and maintain social distancing.
WARREN GARBAGE PICK UP OPERATING AS USUAL WARREN PUBLIC AMENITIES (PUBLIC TOILETS)
Open as usual but, will be subject to extra cleaning.
COUNCIL’S HEALTH AND BUILDING SURVEYOR, DEVELOPMENT COMPLIANCE AND RANGER
Will continue to carry out regular duties, provided they are able to maintain appropriate social distancing and masks will be worn at all times. This will also be subject to Covid Safety Plans on building sites, and other Covid safe requirements of the Public Health Orders.
OUTDOOR WORKS PROGRAMS AND FACILITIES MAINTENANCE, (WATER, SEWERAGE, ROADS, PARKS AND FACILITIES)
Will continue wherever permissible, providing social distancing requirements can be maintained, including the 1 person per 4-square rule on sites.
CEMETERIES
Open as of Saturday 11 September 2021 with a funeral limit of 50 persons and appropriate social distancing.
WARREN WAR MEMORIAL SWIMMING POOL
Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool is expected to open Saturday 2 October 2021. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Phone 02 6847 6600 if you need to make an enquiry.
COUNCIL MEETING
The 23 September 2021 Council Meeting is expected to be held in person in the Council Community Room, 115 Dubbo Street, Warren. Please note signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory.
VACATION CARE
Vacation Care at the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre is programmed for two (2) weeks from Monday 20 September 2021 to Friday 1 October 2021. Care will be prioritised to;
children of essential workers, including health care professionals;
vulnerable and disadvantaged children; and
to children who were previously enrolled if care is required.
All customers will need to ensure that they are adhering to the Stay-At-Home Public Health Orders of your respective Local Government Area and only attend Council’s Vacation Care if allowed.
All families are required to contact the Health and Development Services Vacation Care Team on 0427 215 086 for bookings of your children(s).
Council can be contacted by: Phone: 02 6847 6600 | Email: council@warren.nsw.gov.au
A reminder that payments to Council can be made by any of the following means:
Council’s staff are available to answer your calls between 8.30 am – 5.00 pm weekdays.
Council’s phone will be diverted to an on-call officer after normal office hours and weekends and public holidays. In the case of emergencies, please call 000.
We ask that the community be patient, remain attentive to social distancing, mask up and take your own precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Importantly get vaccinated as soon as you can.
Council will provide updates as circumstances change.
Covid Testing at the Warren Multi-Purpose Health Service will be by a booked appointment with times between 2.00 pm and 3.00 pm, Monday to Friday. Please telephone ahead on 02 6847 5400 for an appointment, bookings are limited.
Please obey all road signs and speed limits.
Heavy vehicles and large motor vehicles will need to park away from the hospital and walk to the hospital and follow signage. There is no room for heavy and large vehicles to turn around on the hospital grounds.
Information for the Warren Shire Community regarding Warren Shire Council’s business operations with the lifting of the Stay-At-Home Public Health Order for parts of Regional NSW including the Warren Shire Local Government Area.
For information concerning the Coronavirus COVID-19, please contact NSW Health.
Warren Shire Council is able to resume some face-to-face services and in–person operations following the lifting of the Stay-At-Home Public Health Order for parts of Regional NSW, including the Warren Shire Local Government Area as of 12.01am Saturday 11th September, 2021.
All Council employees will continue wearing masks when interacting with members of the public indoors and while working in shared, indoor spaces (including when sharing a vehicle). All customers are asked to wear masks if engaging with Council staff indoors.
Kindly continue using the QR check-in at all venues. As COVID-19 is still present in neighbouring communities, this will help with contact tracing, should it be required.
WARREN SHIRE OFFICE
Council's Administration Office, 115 Dubbo Street will be open for face-to-face contact from Monday 13th September 2021 at 8.30am. There will be a limit on the number of customers allowed within the building at the same time in order to comply with the ‘four square metre rule’. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. Please note signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Customer enquiries and requests for service can still be made by telephone to 02 6847 6600 or by email to council@warren.nsw.gov.au.
All customers will need to ensure that they are adhering to the Stay-At-Home Public Health Orders of your respective Local Government Area and only attend Council’s Office for essential business.
WARREN SERVICE NSW AGENCY
The Service NSW Agency will re-open Monday 13th September 2021 at 8:30am with a limit of three (3) customers within the Service NSW Agency/ Council Administration front foyer during these times. Kindly wait outside using the chairs provided and maintain social distancing while awaiting service. Please note signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. Using your online MyServiceNSW account or calling the Service NSW hotline on 13 77 88 are other options for service.
WARREN SHIRE LIBRARY
Warren Library will re-open from Saturday 11th September 2021 at 10.00am with a limit on the number of people allowed inside the building. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. Phone 02 6847 6656 if you need to make an enquiry.
WARREN SPORTING & CULTURAL CENTRE
Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre including the Gym Facilities will re-open from Saturday 11th September 2021 at 6.00am with a limit on the number of people allowed in the Gym area. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory. The rules of cleaning equipment after use and classes with a maximum of 20 people must be adhered to. Phone 02 6847 6670 if you need to make an enquiry.
The Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre will be closed to normal public use during the Covid Vaccination Clinic being undertaken on Thursday/Friday 16/17 September 2021 between the hours of 8:00am to 6:00pm.
WARREN SHIRE DEPOT
Warren Shire Depot will re-open from Monday 13th September 2021 at 7.00am. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside buildings is mandatory. Phone 02 6847 6647 if you need to make an enquiry.
HEAVY VEHICLE INSPECTION STATION (HVIS)
Transport for NSW will be undertaking pre-booked heavy vehicle safety inspections at the Warren Shire Depot from Monday, 20th September to Friday, 24th September 2021. Covid-19 safety measures will be in place by Transport for NSW. The Covid-19 Safety Plan must be adhered to.
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT WITHIN OUR PARKS AND GARDENS
All our Parks are open but currently cannot be used for Community Sport. Playground equipment within our parks and gardens will progressively be opened on Saturday 11th September 2021 with appropriate signage in relation to Social Distancing. Council will continue to provide heavy cleaning of the playground equipment daily.
WARREN SKATE PARK AND WARREN SPLASH PARK
The Warren Skate Park and Warren Splash Park will progressively be opened on Saturday 11th September 2021 with appropriate signage in relation to Social Distancing. Council will continue to provide heavy cleaning of the touch points on any equipment daily.
WARREN EWENMAR WASTE DEPOT
QR code check-in/out is required. Wear a mask and maintain social distancing.
WARREN GARBAGE PICK UP OPERATING AS USUAL WARREN PUBLIC AMENITIES (PUBLIC TOILETS)
Open as usual but, will be subject to extra cleaning.
COUNCIL’S HEALTH AND BUILDING SURVEYOR, DEVELOPMENT COMPLIANCE AND RANGER
Will continue to carry out regular duties, provided they are able to maintain appropriate social distancing and masks will be worn at all times. This will also be subject to Covid Safety Plans on building sites, and other Covid safe requirements of the Public Health Orders.
OUTDOOR WORKS PROGRAMS AND FACILITIES MAINTENANCE, (WATER, SEWERAGE, ROADS, PARKS AND FACILITIES)
Will continue wherever permissible, providing social distancing requirements can be maintained, including the 1 person per 4-square rule on sites.
CEMETERIES
Open as of Saturday 11th September 2021 with a funeral limit of 50 persons and appropriate social distancing.
WARREN WAR MEMORIAL SWIMMING POOL
Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool is expected to open Saturday 2nd October 2021. Please note the signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Phone 02 6847 6600 if you need to make an enquiry.
COUNCIL MEETING
The 23rd September 2021 Council Meeting is expected to be held in person in the Council Community Room, 115 Dubbo Street, Warren. Please note signage at the entrance. QR code check-in/out is required. Mask wearing inside is mandatory.
VACATION CARE
Vacation Care at the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre is programmed for perhaps up to 2 weeks from Monday 27th September 2021 to Friday 8th October 2021. Council is yet to determine whether the Vacation Care Programme will be able to go ahead.
Council can be contacted by: Phone: 02 6847 6600 Email: council@warren.nsw.gov.au
A reminder that payments to Council can be made by any of the following means:
Council’s staff are available to answer your calls between 8.30 am – 5.00 pm weekdays.
Council’s phone will be diverted to an on-call officer after normal office hours and weekends and public holidays. In the case of emergencies, please call 000.
We ask that the community be patient, remain attentive to social distancing, mask up and take your own precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Importantly get vaccinated as soon as you can.
Council will provide updates as circumstances change.
Covid Testing at the Warren Multi-Purpose Health Service will be by a booked appointment with times between 2.00 pm and 3.00 pm. Please telephone ahead on 02 6847 5400 for an appointment, bookings are limited.
Please obey all road signs and speed limits.
Heavy vehicles and large motor vehicles will need to park away from the hospital and walk to the hospital and follow signage. There is no room for heavy and large vehicles to turn around on the hospital grounds.
Expressions of interest are now open to work at the elections in December. Working at an election is a great way for members of the community to earn money, learn new skills and deliver democracy by helping people to have their say. There are positions available during the election period and on election day itself. More information, including position descriptions, pay rates, and the link to apply, can be found on the website - https://eoi.elections.nsw.gov.au/EOI/.
NSW Health has announced that the Warren Shire Local Government Area will emerge from lockdown at 12:01am this Saturday, 11 September, but will continue to operate under restrictions for the safety of our regional communities.
Full stay-at-home restrictions will be in place until this time.
Only some Local Government Areas will have the lockdown lifted and many of our neighbouring LGAs will continue to have the stay-at-home orders in place. Click on the link below to check the map.
The following freedoms will be available to all people in regional LGAs where stay-at-home orders have lifted:
Gatherings in the home and public spaces:
Up to five visitors will be allowed in a home (not including children 12 and under).
Up to 20 people can gather in outdoor settings.
Venues including hospitality, retail stores and gyms:
Hospitality venues can reopen subject to one person per 4sqm inside and one person per 2sqm outside, with standing while drinking permitted outside.
Retail stores can reopen under the one person per 4sqm rule.
Personal services such as hairdressers and nail salons can open with one person per 4sqm, capped at five clients per premises.
Gyms and indoor recreation facilities can open under the one person per 4sqm rule and can offer classes for up to 20 people.
Sporting facilities including swimming pools can reopen.
Schools:
Schools will re-open with Level 3 COVIDSafe measures in place.
Stadiums, theatres and major outdoor recreation facilities:
Major recreation outdoor facilities including stadiums, racecourses, theme parks and zoos can reopen with one person per 4sqm, capped at 5,000 people.
Up to 500 people can attend ticketed and seated outdoor events.
Indoor entertainment and information facilities including cinemas, theatres, music halls, museums and galleries can reopen with one person per 4sqm or 75 per cent fixed seated capacity.
Weddings, funerals and places of worship:
Up to 50 guests can attend weddings, with dancing permitted and eating and drinking only while seated.
Up to 50 guests can attend funerals, with eating and drinking while seated.
Churches and places of worship to open subject to one person per 4sqm rule, with no singing.
Travel:
Caravan parks and camping grounds can open.
Carpooling will be permitted.
Masks:
Masks will remain mandatory for all indoor public venues, including public transport, front-of-house hospitality, retail and business premises, on planes and at airports.
Only hospitality staff will be required to wear a mask when outdoors.
Children aged under 12 will not need to wear a mask indoors.
Sewage tests for Warren on 2 September have returned a negative result, showing no detection of COVID-19.
Warren Shire Mayor, Councillor Milton Quigley, says while this is a great result, it is important to remain vigilant and get tested no matter how mild the symptom.
“The sewage testing is a useful early warning system however one of the best ways to keep our community safe is to get tested if you have any symptoms. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, loss of taste, loss of smell or fatigue.
“With COVID-19 testing facilities available by appointment at the Warren Multi-Purpose Health Service between 2.00pm - 3.00pm from Monday to Friday, we are asking anyone who is experiencing symptoms to please get themselves tested as soon as possible and follow the advice from NSW Health. You can book an appointment to get tested by phoning 02 6847 5400,” says Mayor Quigley.
The Warren Shire’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak in Western NSW has been a testament to the community with one of the highest testing and vaccination rates in the region.
“I thank you for the work you have been doing to date to keep our community safe. We need to continue these efforts by complying with the stay-at-home orders, wearing a mask and practicing sanitisation, and if you haven’t already, getting vaccinated
“NSW Health will continue monitoring the Warren sewage and will notify the community if there is a positive test result. The absence of any further announcement from NSW Health regarding the sewage testing for Warren should be considered as a good situation as we continue to work together to keep our community safe,” added Mayor Quigley.
For more information you can refer to the following resources:
Warren Shire Council’s Stafford Street Water Tower Mural Project is soon set to come to life, with the mural’s sporting theme reflective of activities at the Carter Oval Sporting Precinct and Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool, near which the water tower is located.
With the concept designs completed by renowned artist Sam Brooks, the Stafford Street Water Tower mural is the first in Warren Shire’s Mural Program, with the artwork fully funded through state and federal government grants.
Warren Shire Mayor, Councillor Milton Quigley, says the sporting theme offers the perfect opportunity to signpost the newly redeveloped sporting facilities offered nearby.
“Following a recommendation from the Warren Public Arts Committee in July 2020, Council resolved that the Stafford Street Water Tower mural design would be based around the sporting activities offered at the nearby swimming pool, skate park, water park and on Carter Oval.
“This concept was widely reported at the time, including a feature on the front page of the Warren Weekly on 5 August last year, and the concept designs also received positive community feedback when on display during Local Government Week last month.
“Council endorsed the Warren Public Arts Committee’s final 3D mural concept design featuring swimming, cricket, soccer and skateboarding at our August 2021 meeting, and we look forward to seeing this mural be bought to life as a marker to the nearby sporting and recreational precinct and the activities it offers all residents and visitors to Warren,” says Councillor Quigley.
Mayor Quigley has also acknowledged the funding bodies that have enabled the mural’s development and adds that the fully grant-funded artwork has not been supported by any rate payer funds.
“The Stafford Street Water Tower Mural project is fully funded by the NSW Government’s Country Arts Support Program, the Australian Government’s Drought Communities Grant Extension Program and the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3.
“I would like to acknowledge these grant contributions and reiterate that no ratepayer funds are being used for the mural project,” adds Councillor Quigley.
Warren Shire Council General Manager, Gary Woodman, says the Stafford Street Water Tower Mural is the first step in the development of public art murals across the Warren Shire and will undoubtedly become an attraction due to its unique identity on the mural trail.
“In addition to the sporting theme depicted, the mural concept designs developed by artist Sam Brooks incorporate both Wayilwan Country and Warren Shire in unique and interesting ways.
“The concept designs currently depict Aboriginal woman and Australian soccer player, Lydia Grace Yilkari Williams, and young Anglo-Japanese skateboarder, Sky Brown, as the base images for some of the athletes portrayed. The final mural will be changed to become unidentifiable people, but will still reflect our diverse and multicultural community.
“The complete mural covers approximately 60% of the upper section and around 70% of the lower section of the Stafford Street Water Tower, and the Bird’s Eye View Plan highlights how the images flow from one another as they move around the entirety of the tower to create an original and eye-catching landmark that is destined to become a talking point for both locals and visitors,” says Mr Woodman.
Sadly, artist Sam Brooks is unable to complete the mural due to illness and Warren Shire Council is now working to find another artist to collaborate on bringing these concept designs to life.
Mr Woodman says Council is also seeking community representatives to fill three vacancies on the Warren Public Arts Committee and continues to advertise for these positions, ahead of the development of other public arts murals in the shire.
“Unfortunately, the timing for the initial Stafford Street Water Tower Mural grant did not allow for Council’s standard community consultation process; however, Warren Public Arts Committee is a community-based organisation, with up to five community members providing input to both the Committee and Council on the Stafford Street Water Tower concept designs.
“We are continuing to advertise for interested community representatives to join this Committee, ahead of the development of more public arts murals across the Shire including the Nevertire Water Tower, as well as for public art on private property.
“These projects will be accompanied by a full community consultation program seeking comprehensive community input, as grant funding for these projects allows for this process to take place prior to completing final concept designs and we want as many residents as possible to contribute to the development of public art in our Shire,” says Mr Woodman.
Council will announce the appointment of an artist to complete the Stafford Street Water Tower Mural Project once this is finalised.
If you are interested in nominating to become a Warren Public Arts Committee Community Representative, written nominations can be submitted to Council by 4.30pm on Thursday 7 October 2021.
Please submit via council@warren.nsw.gov.au or PO Box 6, Warren NSW 2824. Applicants should note that all applications will be made public.
For further information, please contact Council’s General Manager Gary Woodman on 02 6847 6600.
For information concerning the Coronavirus COVID-19, please contact NSW Health.
Due to ongoing concerns about community transmission, Stay at Home Orders in place for Regional NSW have been extended until at least 11.59pm on 10th September 2021, in line with existing orders for the Greater Sydney area.
To align with the NSW Government’s Stay at Home Orders for the Warren Shire Local Government Area and to protect Council staff, the following Council businesses will be closed to the public and services are being affected:
WARREN SERVICE NSW AGENCY
The Warren Service NSW Agency will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
WARREN SHIRE OFFICE
The Warren Shire Council Office will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
WARREN SHIRE LIBRARY
The Warren Shire Library will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
WARREN SPORTING & CULTURAL CENTRE
The Warren Sporting & Cultural Centre will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
WARREN SHIRE DEPOT
The Warren Shire Works Depot will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
HEAVY VEHICLE INSPECTION STATION (HVIS)
Transport for NSW will be undertaking pre-booked heavy vehicle safety inspections at the Warren Shire Depot from Monday, 20th September to Friday, 24th September 2021. Covid-19 safety measures will be in place.
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT WITHIN OUR PARKS AND GARDENS
Playground equipment within our parks and gardens will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021
WARREN SKATE PARK AND WARREN SPLASH PARK
The Warren Skate Park and Warren Splash Park will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021
WARREN EWENMAR WASTE DEPOT OPERATING AS USUAL
QR code check in/out is now required. Please ensure you check in/out when using the facility, wear a mask and maintain social distancing.
WARREN GARBAGE PICK UP OPERATING AS USUAL
WARREN PUBLIC AMENITIES (PUBLIC TOILETS)
Will remain open as usual but, will be subject to extra cleaning.
COUNCIL’S HEALTH AND BUILDING SURVEYOR, DEVELOPMENT COMPLIANCE AND RANGER
Will continue to carry out regular duties, provided they are able to maintain appropriate social distancing and masks will be worn at all times. This will also be subject to Covid Safety Plans on building sites, and other Covid safe requirements of the Public Health Orders.
OUTDOOR WORKS PROGRAMS AND FACILITIES MAINTENANCE, (WATER, SEWERAGE, ROADS, PARKS AND FACILITIES)
Will continue wherever permissible, providing social distancing requirements can be maintained, including the 1 person per 4-square rule on sites.
Council’s staff are available to answer your calls between 8.30 am – 5.00 pm weekdays throughout this period.
Council’s phone will be diverted to an on-call officer after normal office hours and weekends and public holidays. In the case of emergencies, please call 000.
We ask that the community be patient, remain attentive to social distancing, mask up and take your own precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Council will provide updates as circumstances change.
Covid Testing at the Warren Multi-Purpose Health Service will be by a booked appointment with times between 2.00 pm and 3.00 pm. Please telephone ahead on 02 6847 5400 for an appointment, bookings are limited.
Please obey all road signs and speed limits.
Heavy vehicles and large motor vehicles will need to park away from the hospital and walk to the hospital and follow signage. There is no room for heavy and large vehicles to turn around on the hospital grounds.
Our latest edition of Council News is now available.
From the Mayor's Desk - August Council News
Throughout August we have seen an excellent community response to the evolving COVID-19 situation in Western NSW. Warren Shire has some of the highest testing rates in NSW and 622 residents attended the combined Australian Defence Force / Western NSW Local Health District COVID-19 vaccination clinic on 23 and 24 August.
I want to thank everyone involved in setting up and supporting the pop-up clinic over the two days.
The high take-up rate is testament to the degree of care that we as individuals have for our families, friends and the whole Warren Shire community. The clinic will return on 13 and 14 September for the second dose vaccinations.
I would also like to acknowledge and thank staff at the Warren MPHS for their continuing work at the COVID-19 testing clinic and those at Rural and Remote Medical Services for the AstraZeneca clinic on Friday 20 August.
It is important we continue to remain vigilant, follow the stay-at-home orders, get tested if you have any symptoms, and if you are eligible, book a date to vaccinate.
Council continues to lobby both the State and Federal Governments for the funding required to repair the Warren town levee after being unsuccessful in the first round of the National Flood Mitigation Infrastructure Program Funding. Council does have a contingency plan in place for emergency repair work that can be enacted quickly should the need arise so that the integrity of the levee is maintained.
A drive through COVID-19 Testing Clinic is available at the Warren Multi Purpose Health Service from Thursday, 2 September 2021 to Sunday, 5 September 2021 and will be operating from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm.
Bookings are not required.
Please obey all road signs and speed limits.
Heavy vehicles and large motor vehicles will need to park away from the hospital and walk to the hospital and follow signage. There is no room for heavy and large vehicles to turn around on the hospital grounds.
The community is encouraged to come forward for testing for even the mildest of symptoms. Council has been advised that test results have been made available from 24-48 hours after the test, sometimes even quicker.
Council has built an emergency trailer that is equipped and ready to use on callouts for road accidents, water pipe breakages and any other incidents that require traffic control.
The emergency trailer contains all signs, stands and equipment needed for emergency traffic control work and will enable Council to respond promptly to incidents.
Road Maintenance Schedule
The following maintenance is scheduled for September and October. This schedule may be subject to change with the continued wet weather and the need to commence emergency flood and storm damage restoration works.
Maintenance grade scheduled for September:
Elsinore Road
Nevertire-Bogan Road - Shoulders
Mannix Road
Carinda Road - Shoulders
Catons Road
Cullemburrawang Road
Hatton Road
Construction on Ellengerah Road in September and October.
For information concerning the Coronavirus COVID-19, please contact the NSW Department of Health.
Due to ongoing concerns about community transmission, Stay at Home Orders in place for Regional NSW have been extended until at least 11.59pm on 10th September 2021, in line with existing orders for the Greater Sydney area.
To align with the NSW Government’s Stay at Home Orders for the Warren Shire Local Government Area and to protect Council staff, the following Council businesses will be closed to the public and services are being affected:
WARREN SERVICE NSW AGENCY
The Warren Service NSW Agency will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
WARREN SHIRE OFFICE
The Warren Shire Council Office will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
WARREN SHIRE LIBRARY
The Warren Shire Library will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
WARREN SPORTING & CULTURAL CENTRE
The Warren Sporting & Cultural Centre will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
WARREN SHIRE DEPOT
The Warren Shire Works Depot will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT WITHIN OUR PARKS AND GARDENS
Playground equipment within our parks and gardens will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021
WARREN SKATE PARK AND WARREN SPLASH PARK
The Warren Skate Park and Warren Splash Park will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021
WARREN EWENMAR WASTE DEPOT OPERATING AS USUAL
WARREN GARBAGE PICK UP OPERATING AS USUAL
WARREN PUBLIC AMENITIES (PUBLIC TOILETS)
Will remain open as usual but, will be subject to extra cleaning.
COUNCIL’S HEALTH AND BUILDING SURVEYOR, DEVELOPMENT COMPLIANCE AND RANGER
Will continue to carry out regular duties, provided they are able to maintain appropriate social distancing and masks will be worn at all times. This will also be subject to Covid Safety Plans on building sites, and other Covid safe requirements of the Public Health Orders.
OUTDOOR WORKS PROGRAMS AND FACILITIES MAINTENANCE, (WATER, SEWERAGE, ROADS, PARKS AND FACILITIES)
Will continue wherever permissible, providing social distancing requirements can be maintained, including the 1 person per 4-square rule on sites.
Council’s staff are available to answer your calls between 8.30 am – 5.00 pm weekdays throughout this period.
Council’s phone will be diverted to an on-call officer after normal office hours and weekends and public holidays. In the case of emergencies, please call 000.
We ask that the community be patient, remain attentive to social distancing, mask up and take your own precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Council will provide updates as circumstances change.
A Covid Testing Clinic is available at the Warren Multi Purpose Health Service today (Wednesday, 1st September 2021) by a booked appointment with times between 2.00 pm and 3.00 pm. Please telephone ahead on 02 6847 5400 for an appointment.
A drive through Covid Testing Clinic will be available at the Warren Multi Purpose Health Service from Thursday, 2nd September 2021 to Sunday, 5th September 2021 and will be operating from 10.00 am to
2.00 pm. Bookings are not required. Please obey all road signs and speed limits.
Heavy vehicles and large motor vehicles will need to park away from the hospital and walk to the hospital and follow signage. There is no room for heavy and large vehicles to turn around on the hospital grounds.
Warren Shire Council is advising all residents to remain especially vigilant in protecting their community against COVID-19, following detection of a positive sewage test on 30 August 2021.
NSW Health is currently monitoring sewage across NSW to identify sources of COVID-19 and help communities take preventative action to stop the spread of the disease.
Warren Shire Mayor, Councillor Milton Quigley, is asking all residents to be especially vigilant, and says one of the best ways to help is to get tested if you have any symptoms.
“Warren Shire residents have already demonstrated their strength of community spirit in our COVID-19 response, and with COVID-19 testing facilities available at the Warren Multi-Purpose Health Service, we are asking anyone who is experiencing symptoms to please get themselves tested as soon as possible. We have been advised that the problems previously experienced with test result wait times should not be experienced and results should now be back within 72 hours.
“I thank you for the work you have been doing to date to keep our community safe, and given this new development, I am urging everyone to please continue doing our good work and remain as vigilant as possible.
“You can do this by continuing to comply with all Stay at Home Orders, only leave home if you have a reasonable excuse including working from home if you can, practice proper sanitation and mask up!
“If you must leave home, it is essential you check in at any venues, get vaccinated if you haven’t done so already and of course, if you have any symptoms, get tested and follow NSW Health advice.
“Now is not the time to panic. Simply adhering to these measures is our best chance to protect the health and wellbeing of the entire Warren Shire community,” says Councillor Quigley.
Warren Shire Council General Manager, Gary Woodman, says Council is working closely with NSW Health and other relevant authorities to monitor the situation and arm residents with as much information as possible.
“Warren Shire’s positive sewage testing result will be announced on NSW Health’s website today and we are working with all relevant authorities to report this information to residents as soon as possible.
“We have already contacted local supermarkets, local health services and the local police so that we can provide a coordinated community response to this issue.
“We are asking everyone to use their common sense and assist us by following the directions set by NSW Health and to wait for any further directions necessary,” says Mr Woodman.
Council has been advised that a further sample of the Warren sewage will be taken and sent tomorrow, Thursday 2 September.
For full details on Stay at Home Orders, community sewage testing and COVID-19 in NSW, please visit NSW Health at health.nsw.gov.au
A Covid Testing Clinic is available at the Warren Multi-Purpose Health Service today (Wednesday, 1st September 2021) by a booked appointment with times between 2.00 pm and 3.00 pm. Please telephone ahead on 02 6847 5400 for an appointment.
A drive through Covid Testing Clinic will be available at the Warren Multi-Purpose Health Service from Thursday, 2nd September 2021 to Sunday, 5th September 2021 and will be operating from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm. Bookings are not required. Please obey all road signs and speed limits.
Heavy vehicles and large motor vehicles will need to park away from the hospital and walk to the hospital and follow signage. There is no room for heavy and large vehicles to turn around on the hospital grounds.
Council recently assisted with an application to the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund to further enhance the region’s Burrima Walkway located in the Macquarie Marshes.
The $500,000 grant application by Macquarie Wetlands Association is to improve road access and encourage more visitors to this important conservation attraction.
With over 220 species living in the Macquarie Marshes, Burrima Walkway provides visitors with an elevated boardwalk to enjoy the environment with comfort and safety, whether it’s wet or dry.
David Duncan, from the Macquarie Wetlands Association, says Burrima is a place for visitors to immerse themselves in a unique environmental experience which includes 2km of River Red Gum forest, mixed marsh and dense reeds, experiencing the beauty and environmental significance of the Macquarie Marshes.
“With this grant, the improved road access will give more opportunity for more people to enjoy this important natural habitat for many species of flora and fauna, and with added comfort and safety,” says David.
Council hopes that the grant application is successful for this worthwhile project.
\"What a fabulous project has come to fruition, have been hearing about it for a while but seeing it is stunning and way exceeded expectations. Thank you for sharing and showing us\" - visitor from Goondiwindi
Welcome to WOW
To provide better access to more people, a recent grant application was made to the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund for the Window on the Wetlands. Already an established tourist recreation and education centre, Window on the Wetlands is focused on providing access for all people.
Council supported RiverSmart in submitting the $500,000 grant application to improve accessibility by better wheelchair access to the centre, develop visual captions and Auslan audio displays, and to upgrade the car park including an exit to improve access for caravans.
Shona Whitfield from RiverSmart says the proposed works will enable more people to visit the Window on the Wetland Centre and appreciate the healthy river and wetland systems of Tiger Bay.
“Our vision is to create a gateway for people to appreciate what’s in the region, and the more we improve the facilities, the more people we will attract,” says Ms Whitfield.
Council hopes that the grant application is successful for this worthwhile project.
Council recently endorsed the Warren Public Arts Committee’s final concept design for the development of a mural on the Stafford Street Water Tower that is consistent with the sporting theme of the redeveloped Carter Oval Sporting Precinct.
The mural design features sporting activities that can be enjoyed by the community in the precinct including swimming, cricket, soccer and skateboarding. Artist Sam Brooks developed the 3D mural concept designs, which received positive community feedback while on display during Local Government Week.
Unfortunately, due to illness, Sam Brooks is unable to paint the mural, so Council is now working to find another artist to collaborate on bringing these designs to life on the Stafford Street water tower.
The mural is fully funded through the NSW Government’s Country Arts Support Program, the Australian Government’s Drought Communities Grant Extension Program and the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3.
Nevertire Reservoir
The $750,000 Nevertire Reservoir refurbishment program is progressing with the contractor recently completing an external washdown, spot priming and the installation of new handrails on the top of the 21-metre-high reservoir.
Once the refurbishment is complete, the reservoir will become a canvas for another shire mural. Council has started receiving some design theme ideas from Nevertire residents and a formal community consultation program will soon commence, with a number of community organisations to be used including the Nevertire Social Club, Nevertire Rodeo Committee, Hall Committee and the Nevertire Hotel. Public meetings will be held, if possible, and the selected theme will be advertised Shire-wide.
The mural is expected to be completed by March/April 2022 and is funded through the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3.
Council recently approved the final concept designs for the development of a stunning mural celebrating local sport for the Stafford Street water tower.
With the water tower located near Warren’s sporting precinct, the mural design takes inspiration from some of the activities enjoyed by residents including swimming, cricket, soccer and skateboarding.
Warren Shire Mayor, Councillor Milton Quigley, says the mural concept design was created by Adelaide-based artist Sam Brooks who was chosen from several artists who had responded to Council’s Expression of Interest.
“Given the location of the mural, we decided a sporting theme would best represent the area and provide a sense of inspiration and pride to our community. Artist Sam Brooks’ design really captured this through his use of 3D images,” says Mayor Quigley.
Chairperson of the Warren Public Arts Committee, Councillor Pauline Serdity, is involved in the Stafford Street Water Tower Mural project and says the community response to the concept designs have been positive.
“We recently featured the mural concepts as part of our Local Government Week display and the feedback from residents who attended was fantastic.
“What excites me is that the design is different to any of the murals in neighbouring local government areas. It will undoubtedly be an attraction when visiting the area,” says Councillor Serdity.
Final works are underway to prepare the water tower for the painting of the mural, which will be completed by early next year. Unfortunately, due to illness, Mr Brooks will be unable to paint the mural however his design will be used in collaboration with a different artist. Council is currently finding an artist to bring Mr Brooks designs to life on the water tower.
“We will be working with interested artists to finalise the painting of the mural. Once we have selected an artist that can deliver the style and concept created by Mr Brooks, we hope to start the artistic works on the water tower in November,” added Councillor Serdity.
Funded through the NSW Government’s Country Arts Support Program, the Australian Government’s Drought Communities Grant Extension Program and the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3, the Stafford Street water tower mural is set to be an attraction for both residents and visitors to the shire.
We saw excellent community support for the combined Australian Defence Force, Western NSW Local Health District COVID-19 vaccination clinic held at the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre on Monday 23rd August and Tuesday 24th August. Six hundred and twenty two eligible people were vaccinated over the two days.
The high take up rate is testament to the degree of care that we as individuals have for our families, friends and the whole Warren Shire community.
The only way to keep safe is to be vaccinated. The clinic will return on 13th and 14th September.
It would be remiss of me to not thank the large group of people from different organisations who facilitated the clinic. These include the ADF, the Western NSW LHD, Warren MPHS Staff, the SES, Fire and Rescue NSW, Warren Shire Council staff and the Warren Police.
Marquees were provided by Warren Supa IGA, Macquarie Toyota, WRL, Three Rivers Machinery, the Cotton Growers Association and Warren Shire Council.
Warren Central School, St Mary’s Parish School and the Warren Youth Foundation were all able to promote the event on their electronic notice boards in the days leading up to the clinic.
I also acknowledge and thank staff at the Warren MPHS for their continuing work at the COVID-19 testing clinic and those at RaRMS for the AstraZeneca clinic on Friday 20th August.
Sewerage testing for COVID-19 fragments has begun at the Warren Shire Council Sewerage Treatment Plant as an adjunct in keeping our community safe as cases of new infection continue in neighbouring Local Government Areas. Council is responsible for sample collection, but all COVID-19 testing is performed by external laboratories under the auspices of NSW Health. This specialised testing is not done by Council. NSW Health is solely responsible for the release of results. It is Council’s expectation that we will not be notified of results unless there is a positive test result and in the case that there was a positive result that the information would be released in a timely manner to the public.
Council continues to lobby both the State and Federal Governments for the funding required to repair the Warren town levee after being unsuccessful in the first round of the National Flood Mitigation Infrastructure Program Funding. Council does have a contingency plan in place for emergency repair work that can be enacted quickly should the need arise so that the integrity of the levee is maintained. We also have a distinct advantage in dealing with the problem in that our current General Manager, Gary Woodman oversaw the design and construction of the levee during his previous tenure at Warren Shire Council as Manager Engineering Services. Resultantly, he has an intimate knowledge of its significant capabilities.
Warren Shire Council meets on the fourth Thursday of every month, with the exception of November, which is replaced with a meeting on the first Thursday of December.
Please find following a selection of highlights from this month’s meeting:
REPORTS OF THE GENERAL MANAGER
Infrastructure Progress Updates – Item 3
Warren Showground/Racecourse Upgrade
Electrical facility upgrades funded through the NSW Showground Stimulus Program Phase 2 are over 50% complete, including switchboards at showies camping area.
Quotations are currently being obtained to replace amenities in the cattleman’s and horse sports camping area, renovate men’s amenities in the main pavilion, install a new septic tank for the main pavilion amenities and re-fence the Showground perimeter. Work is starting on renovating amenities in the centre arena, installing a new septic tank with a grease trap for the canteen waste in the centre arena, and to renew all concrete and asphalt floors. These works, totalling $841,500, are funded through the NSW Government’s Showground Stimulus Funding Program, Phase 2C.
Monkeygar Creek Macquarie Marshes Bird Viewing Platform and Parking Project Works scoping and programming has commenced for construction of the Monkeygar Creek Macquarie Marshes Bird Viewing Platform and Parking, for greater access to this local attraction. The $500,000 project is funded through the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program (Round 3).
Grant Applications
Council is awaiting responses for the following grant applications:
$671,000 to the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Round 4 for change rooms and male and female amenities block at Carter Oval.
$95,944 to the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Round 4 for further upgrades to the Warren Showground/Racecourse Equestrian Arena with a focus on women.
$100,000 to the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund Program for construction of an all-access amenities block at the Warren Pony Club.
$250,000 to the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund Program for the refurbishment of the Racecourse bar and viewing area.
$60,000 to the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund Program to replace the ladies’ amenities at the Showground.
Partnering with RiverSmart for a grant of $500,000 from the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund to improve access to Window on the Wetlands.
Partnering with Macquarie Wetlands Association for a grant of $500,000 from the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund to improve access to Burrima Walkway and create an interactive augmented reality education program to engage and educate visitors.
$200,000 from the NSW Responsible Gambling Infrastructure Grants to construct a new accessible amenities facility in the Warren Central Business District.
$20,000 to the NSW Regional Arts Fund Project Grant for a project to produce public art on Warren Shire shop fronts.
Local Government Union Picnic Day – Item 4
Council has approved a combined union picnic day to be held on Monday 27 September, if COVID-19 restrictions allow.
Council staff represented by Union Services Union (USU), Development and Environmental Professionals' Association (DEPA) and Local Government Engineers Association (LGEA) will participate in the annual union picnic. Council services will not be affected as non-union Council staff will be available to work and undertake emergency services if required.
If the current COVID-19 stay-at-home order is still in place, the union picnic day will be rescheduled.
Local Government NSW Annual Conference – Item 5 & 6
Due to the COVID-19 restrictions the Local Government NSW (LGNSW) Annual Conference due to be held in November 2021, has been moved to an online forum in November 2021, with an in-person Special Conference scheduled for 2022. The online LGNSW Annual Conference will be held on 29 November and Mayor Quigley will be the voting delegate on behalf of Warren Shire Council.
Council has also approved the attendance of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, General Manager, and one Councillor yet to be selected, to attend the LGNSW Special Conference from 28 February to 2 March 2022. Council will raise a number of Motions to advocate for the Shire community including, drought funding, improved flood restoration, emergency planning for natural disasters such as the recent mice plague, solar energy development, improved telecommunications and better access to health services.
REPORTS OF THE DIVISIONAL MANAGER FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
Works progress report – Finance and Administration – Item 3
The refurbishment of the Council Chambers and Administration Building, including the new E-planning service room is underway with extra cupboards, new carpet and fit-out of the interview room yet to be completed.
REPORT OF THE DIVISIONAL MANAGER ENGINEERING SERVICES
Works Progress Report: Roads
Road maintenance grades completed in August:
Buddabadah Road
Flood damage to Castlebar Lane
Flood damage to Bundemar Road
Flood damage to Carinda Road (Shoulders)
Road maintenance and construction schedule for September and October:
Maintenance grade on the following roads in September:
Elsinore Road
Nevertire-Bogan Road - Shoulders
Mannix Road
Carinda Road - Shoulders
Catons Road
Cullemburrawang Road
Hatton Road
Construction on Ellengerah Road throughout September and October.
Maintenance grade on the following roads in October:
Heatherbrae Road
Cremorne Road
Booka Road
Billybingbone Road
Road maintenance works may be subject to change with the continued wet weather and the need to undertake emergency flood and storm restoration works.
Major Capital Works in Progress
Rehabilitation work to the Collie-Trangie Road is in progress with approximately half of Segment 14’s shoulder, earth and pavement works complete, with the application of bitumen prime seal. Due to the recent heavy rainfall, the works are on hold until the weather improves.
The $800,000 Collie-Trangie Road Segment 16 works are to be programmed, with funds now available. The project is funded with $400,000 from Transport for NSW’s REPAIR Program and $400,000 from the 2021/2022 Regional Roads Block Grant.
All works listed are in addition to the regular maintenance, patching, edge repairs, slashing and mowing works carried out across all Council facilities.
Council has also received detailed traffic classifier reports for some Shire roads. To view these in full or for further details on current and future road works in Warren Shire view: WSC August Business Paper.
Works Progress Report: Town Services – Item 2
Warren Lawn Cemetery upgrade Following the installation of a new access amenities facility, the surrounding pathways and gardens are now complete. New locks have been installed in August and once the final internal accessories are available, the amenities will be ready for use.
Nevertire Reservoir Refurbishment The reservoir refurbishment is underway with the contractor completing an external washdown, spot priming and the installation of new handrails. Community consultation has commenced for the reservoir’s mural.
Oxley Park River Water Pumping StationLocal business Ryan Manson Engineering is carrying out the fabrication and installation works. The works are expected to be complete in August-September, depending on weather and river height.
REPORT OF THE MANAGER HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
Partnership Agreement Service NSW for Business – Item 3
Council has supported the proposal to enter into an agreement with Services NSW for Business. Council’s existing agreement with Service NSW has enabled Council to provide invaluable support to individuals and businesses within the community, especially through challenging times.
This additional partnership agreement with Service NSW for Business will allow Warren Shire Council to engage with all services across Service NSW.
The Service NSW for Business provides free, personalised support to small business owners, which includes:
Business Concierges offering over-the-phone, email and face-to-face support and case
Management;
An online Business Profile to make it faster and easier for business owners to transact
with the NSW Government;
Guidance and support for small business owners impacted by natural disasters or emerging issues to access a range of Government stimulus, support and information; and
Online business information hubs including how-to guides to help business owners understand key tasks and the support available when starting and running a business in NSW.
Environment and Waterways Alliance Agreement – Item 4
Council will be renewing its membership to the Environment and Waterways Alliance to continue to support the important work it does in protecting the region’s environment.
Benefits of this alliance for our community includes the current Creating Homes for Threatened Species project, as well receiving a 2021 Small Grants funding for the completion of the Tiger Bay Wetlands Walkway. The membership cost also goes towards the development of a comprehensive State of the Environment Report for the region.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
SPORTING FACILITIES COMMITTEE
Reports from the Centre Manager – Item 6
To continue to improve facilities across the Shire, two projects have been listed for consideration for future grant projects. These include the heating and cooling of the indoor court and gym at the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre, and the construction of additional change rooms at the Centre.
Carter Oval Sporting Precinct including Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool Upgrade Project – Item 7
Preparations are continuing with an amended version of the Carter Oval Sporting Precinct including Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool Plan circulated to the Sporting Facilities Committee Members for final review. A schedule is being developed for community consultation of the proposed plan.
Victoria Oval and Oxley Park – Plan of Management – Item 8
Reviews are underway of the Victoria Oval and Oxley Park Plan of Management to finalise the plan for adoption. The final schematic of Victoria Park, including the transfer of sporting assets to Carter Oval, will be completed with the plan which will then be scheduled for community consultation.
WARREN PUBLIC ARTS COMMITTEE
Water Reservoir Murals
Preparations for the Warren Stafford Street Water Reservoir Mural are progressing with Council approving artist Sam Brooks’ 3D sporting concept designs.
This mural is funded with $2,466 from the NSW Government’s Country Arts Support Program, $34,792 from the Australian Government’s Drought Communities Grant Extension Program and an additional $100,000 recently received through the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3.
Work is also underway with the Nevertire Water Reservoir Mural with the reservoir refurbishment in progress and community consultation for the mural design has commenced. Painting of the mural is expected to take place in March/April 2022. The $130,000 for the Nevertire Water Reservoir mural is funded through the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3.
Warren Shire Council Public Arts Master Plan – Item 5.5
To incorporate diverse art projects across the Shire, the final Warren Shire Public Arts Masterplan will include appropriate Beemunnel Heritage Trail photos and the Table Tennis sculpture photo in the Public Art Trails.
To enable appropriate upgrades to Warren Road, Council is hoping to change the scope of this joint Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) and Fixing Country Roads grant project. In addition, Council will make requests to the Hon. Mark Coulton MP and the Transport for NSW Western Manager to ensure the project is properly funded to allow the rehabilitation of Warren Road, Regional Road 7515 Segments 28,30 and 32.
Gravel Resheeting Program under the Fixing Local Roads Round 3 Grant Applications – Item 6.2
The following projects are listed in the Fixing Local Roads Round 3 Grant application:
Old Warren Road – Segments 26, 30 and 32
Canonba Road – Segments 8 and 10
Gradergy Lane – Part segment 00 and part segment 02.
The total grant funding application including Council’s contribution is $1,333,000. Council is awaiting a response on the grant application.
WARREN LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Reports from emergency agencies include, NSW Rural Fire Service have started grass curing in preparation for the fire season which commences in October.
The Warren Local Emergency Management Committee has also established plans for any additional COVID-19 responses that may be needed to ensure the safety of the Warren Shire community.
As the outbreak of COVID-19 in Western NSW continues, sewage testing has begun in Warren Shire. To alleviate any queries or concerns from the community, Warren Shire Council is providing an outline of the process.
Council is responsible for sample collection, and all COVID-19 testing is performed by external laboratories. This specialised testing is not done by Council.
Warren Shire Council General Manager, Gary Woodman, says this testing program is a proactive response to the evolving COVID-19 situation in neighbouring local government areas.
“The testing program for Warren is another way to help protect the community as it will give us an indication if traces of the virus are detected, and we can take action accordingly.
“As the program is coordinated by NSW Health, it is likely that Council will only be notified if there is a positive test, due to the current high demand for testing in NSW. If a positive sewage detection is found, NSW Health will notify the community and increase their focus on testing,” says Mr Woodman.
Council is not authorised to release details of any test results it receives, and any public announcement will come from NSW Health.
“After such a successful pop-up vaccination clinic earlier this week, with over 620 residents receiving their first COVID-19 vaccination, this sewage testing is yet another support system to respond to the spread of the virus.
“The absence of any announcement from NSW Health regarding the sewage testing for the Shire should be considered as a good situation however it does not mean COVID-19 is not present in our community and everyone should continue to remain vigilant for symptoms and get tested immediately, follow the stay-at-home orders and book a date to vaccinate.
“I understand this is a concerning time, however I assure you Council is constantly monitoring the evolving situation and will keep the community informed,” Mr Woodman added.
For more information you can refer to the following resources:
Emma came to Warren Shire when she was 19. Now married to a Warren local and with four children, Emma is an active member in the Warren Shire community. From her role as a community nurse, her endless dedication to volunteering her time and fundraising, to rediscovering her childhood talent of singing, Emma certainly embodies the shire’s community spirit.
A usual morning looks like?
Chaos! It’s usually getting four kids on the bus and then heading in for work. I’m not a morning person so I would say some days it’s a struggle! There is always a half-drunk coffee left behind, and a hot one waiting for me from my beautiful co-workers when I get to work.
I’m most proud about?
Definitely my family. My kids constantly amaze me with their achievements and the people they are becoming as they grow. My husband is a “just get it done” sort of guy and he makes things happen when we are juggling kids, school, sports, my work and farm life. I couldn’t do my job, mother or nurse without him.
Fondest memory of growing up in Warren Shire?
I didn’t grow up here but turned up in Warren when I was 19. I know that means I’ll never be a true local, but I love when my husband talks about his childhood and all the things he remembers and shares those memories with our kids.
Favourite place in Warren Shire?
The good old Bullagreen. Plenty of legends out there.
Whenever I am away, I long to get back to the space, the freedom, and the fresh air. It has certainly become home.
On the weekend you can find me?
In the winter it’s on the side of a netball court, lunch and then a couple of quiet ones at The Collie Pub. Sunday, unfortunately, it’s a date with the washing machine.
3 words that sum up living in Warren Shire?
A wonderful experience.
You’re very active in the community…
What do you enjoy about raising your family in Warren Shire?
I love all that is offered to kids in Warren, there are so many people that give up their time to teach kids new skills like sports, music, dance and art. Despite being a small town there is still such a huge opportunity for kids to excel. My kids feel a real sense of community and safety in Warren, everyone knows who the kids belong to and everyone looks out for them.
I love schooling in Warren and know my kids wouldn’t get such a personal introduction to education in the city.
Can you tell us your inspiration and journey to become a community nurse?
As the child of a nurse, I was never going to be a nurse, but I guess it’s genetic. I sort of fell into community nursing when my kids were very young, as being a shift worker just didn’t fit with a farming husband. Once I got a taste for community nursing I wasn’t going back!
My mum has definitely been a constant source of inspiration and has instilled in me the basis of nursing, which is to be the patient’s advocate.
I think community nursing still remains a great mystery to some, and until you work in the space, there is little understanding of the endless opportunities it provides.
I have been so incredibly blessed to work with the most caring dedicated nurses you could find, and that makes being passionate so much easier. Our team have worked together going on four years, and in that time we have had the privilege of working with so many community members in times when they or a family member are unwell and vulnerable.
Warren is lucky to be serviced by a number of visiting health professionals who really understand the challenges of providing healthcare in the bush. They bring their experience and knowledge with them and support us to support our community.
As a healthcare worker, how is the current COVID-19 situation impacting your work?
The COVID-19 pandemic has put immense pressure on all healthcare workers.
Chronic Health conditions don’t take a break for pandemics, so along with our usual workload, there is an added one of assisting our community to access COVID swabbing, information about and the roll-out of vaccinations, as seen when nurses assisted with the Australian Defence Force/Western NSW Local Health District pop-up vaccination clinic early in the week.
There is also the mental load to bear, it is always at the forefront of practice – to keep ourselves safe, to keep our families safe, and to keep the vulnerable patients we care for safe.
The Warren Shire community has been leading the way in its response to COVID-19, what do you see that drives this community spirit?
I think for small communities the battle against COVID-19 is such a personal one. For the most part, everyone knows everyone, so we fear for our families, friends, co-workers and all the locals we see servicing our community day in and day out. I think Warren Shire understands the importance of banding together so we can all keep our town safe from the devastating impacts of COVID-19.
You are dedicated to helping our community - from fundraising, cooking BBQs and training netball teams - what do you love about giving back to the shire?
My husband and I both give our time to our kids’ sports, as for us, it is the time we get to spend with them in our busy lives. I feel it is easy to want to do this in Warren as there are so many people, not only parents, giving up their time to volunteer. Like work, it’s easy to be passionate when surrounded by a great group of people. Fundraising is made easy by our very generous townspeople, who readily give donations so that kids can have better experiences.
It is so rewarding to see the joy on kids’ faces as they improve throughout the season and the success they have when the kids from the bush leave their mark in Dubbo competitions.
I love nothing more than turning up on a Wednesday afternoon to see kids playing together, training together, and learning new skills while adults pitch in to coach, umpire, score and time keep, and most of all encourage the kids. It is the true meaning of community spirit at a glimpse.
We hear you have a hidden talent as a singer, when did you discover your love for singing and where do you perform?
I discovered from a very early age that I loved to sing, hum and make noise in general. All through primary school I sang in choirs and was exposed to some very clever musicians. I sang in ‘Sing 2001’, a number of choirs from all over the state joined together in the lead up to the Sydney Olympics in 2000. We travelled to Sydney and performed with thousands of other kids. An experience I’ll never forget.
I did loads of solo singing in high school and had a great group of friends I made music with. I remember being fearless back then, the bigger the crowd the better.
For years I didn’t sing, and it was only when I met the incredible Frances Evans that I decided I’d love to give it a go again. We have done a few gigs with our mate Phil Leman, as the Three Phillies, and despite the absolute fear, it has been a blast. We have performed at the Golfie, Collie Pub, Windows on the Wetlands, luncheons and my personal favourite, a Christmas Concert for the residents at Calara House last year.
After a miserable time being locked down with COVID-19 last year, it felt amazing to bring a bit of joy just in time for Christmas. When COVID-19 is under control I hope to get out with the other Phillies and make some music again.
To nominate a Warren Shire woman to be featured in this series, email media@warren.nsw.gov.au
In relation to COVID-19, it was gratifying to learn that as of 15th August NSW Health figures show Warren Shire Local Government Area (LGA) has administered a total of 3,411 Covid tests. This community response has been encouraging to see and highlights the collective spirit of the Shire.
The Warren Shire LGA has one of the highest testing rates in regional NSW, with now 550 tests for every 1,000 residents, and we are also seeing a high number of people getting vaccinated. With our eligible population sitting at around 1,640 people, over 75% of this group have had their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and over 30% are now fully vaccinated as of the 15th August. We should all be very proud the Shire is among the top regional NSW Local Government Areas for vaccination rates.
Importantly we have had the opportunity to really ramp up those vaccination rates with the arrival of the combined Australian Defence Force, Western NSW Local Health District pop-up vaccination clinic in Warren at the Sporting and Cultural Centre at Victoria Park on Monday 23rd August and Tuesday 24th August.
In reality, having everyone vaccinated in the same way that children are immunised against mumps, measles and chickenpox is the only way in which we can keep our community safe. I would hope that anyone who was eligible and was not yet vaccinated made use of the clinic on Monday or Tuesday. Vaccination is the best way to protect your family, your friends and the Warren community.
We additionally need to continue to comply with the current Stay at Home Public Health Order so that Warren continues to remain COVID-19 free.
As an additional Public Heath measure, our sewerage will now be tested for COVID-19 fragments. This hasn’t been available to smaller towns such as ours until this week, but we will now have access to what I would call an early warning system. I am mindful however that this is not foolproof because travellers use our public facilities and sewerage dump point.
There can be a time lag between COVID-19 testing and receiving the results of that test. There is also the need to stay isolated in the period between testing and receiving the result. Nonetheless, it is essential to get tested if you exhibit any COVID-19 symptoms. If you have waited more than 72 hours for your results please call Western NSW Local Health District COVID-19 Call Centre on 1300 066 055.
In relation to COVID-19, it was gratifying to learn that as of 15th August NSW Health figures show that the Warren Shire Local Government Area (LGA) has administered a total of 3,411 Covid-19 tests. This community response has been encouraging to see and highlights the collective spirit of the Shire.
The Warren Shire LGA has one of the highest testing rates in regional NSW, with now 484 tests for every 1,000 residents, and we are also seeing a high number of people getting vaccinated. With our eligible population sitting at around 1,640 people, over 75% of this group have had their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and over 30% are now fully vaccinated as of the 15th August. We should all be very proud the Shire is among the top regional NSW Local Government Areas for vaccination rates.
Importantly we have the opportunity to really ramp up those vaccination rates with the arrival of the combined Australian Defence Force and Western NSW Local Health District pop-up vaccination clinic in Warren at the Sporting and Cultural Centre, Victoria Park on Monday 23rd August and Tuesday 24th August.
In reality, having everyone vaccinated in the same way that children are immunised against mumps, measles and chickenpox is the only way in which we can keep our community safe. I would encourage anyone who is eligible and not yet vaccinated to make use of the walk-in clinic on Monday or Tuesday.
Vaccination is the best way to protect your family, your friends and the Warren community.
We additionally need to continue to comply with the current Stay at Home Public Health Order so that Warren Shire continues to remain Covid-19 free.
As an additional public health measure, our sewerage will now be tested for Covid-19 fragments. This hasn’t been available to smaller towns such as ours until this week, but we will now have access to what I would call an early warning system. I am mindful however that this is not foolproof because of travellers passing through using our public facilities and sewerage dump point.
POP-UP COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINIC - NO BOOKINGS NEEDED
Head down to Warren Sporting & Cultural Centre, Udora Street, Warren.
When:
Monday 23rd August, 10:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 24th August, 10am - 4pm.
Remember to come prepared with food and drink, as the queue may be long. Depending on the weather, a hat & sunscreen may also be advisable.
Western NSW Local Health District are partnering with the Australian Defence Force to provide this clinic.
Eligibility:
The following people are eligible for vaccination at this clinic:
12 years and over - for people who are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander or have a significant underlying medical condition or disability.
16 years and over - for people from the general population.
Second dose clinics will happen three weeks later. Pfizer will be available.
*** You will need to bring a form of identification and your Medicare card ***
YOU MUST NOT ATTEND THIS VACCINATION CLINIC IF: - You are waiting on a COVID-19 test result. - You are a CONFIRMED close contact of a CONFIRMED positive COVID-19 case. - You are unwell. If you have any COVID symptoms, get tested & isolate until you receive a negative test result. - You have had ANY other vaccination (including flu) in the previous seven days.
Council encourages all eligible community members to utilise this service and continue to keep Warren Shire safe.
Due to ongoing concerns about community transmission, stay-at-home orders in place for regional NSW will be extended until at least 12.01am on 28 August, in line with existing orders for the Greater Sydney area.
As of today, Thursday 19 August 2021, there are NO cases of COVID-19 in the Warren Shire Local Government Area. The COVID-19 cases listed on the NSW Health website for the Warren Shire Local Government Area are not local cases as they pertain to people who have Warren as their address on their driver’s license but live elsewhere.
What the current Stay at Home Orders mean
Everyone must stay at home unless they have a reasonable excuse to leave.
leave home for education if it is not possible to do it at home
exercise and take outdoor recreation in the local government area you live in or if you need to cross into another local government area, limited to 5km from Monday, 16 August 2021
go out for medical or caring reasons, including obtaining a COVID-19 vaccination.
Limit your physical contact with people you do not live with. See the restrictions for visitors to a residence.
You must carry a face mask with you at all times and wear a face mask when required when you leave your home.
Warren Shire Council is putting a number of measures in place to protect our community during this time.
To align with the NSW Government’s Stay at Home Orders for the Warren Local Government Area and to protect Council staff, the following Council businesses will be closed to the public and services are being affected:
WARREN SERVICE NSW AGENCY
The Warren Service NSW Agency will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
WARREN SHIRE OFFICE
The Warren Shire Council Office will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
WARREN SHIRE LIBRARY
The Warren Shire Library will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
WARREN SPORTING & CULTURAL CENTRE
The Warren Sporting & Cultural Centre will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
WARREN SHIRE DEPOT
The Warren Shire Works Depot will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021.
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT WITHIN OUR PARKS AND GARDENS
Playground equipment within our parks and gardens will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021
WARREN SKATE PARK AND WARREN SPLASH PARK
The Warren Skate Park and Warren Splash Park will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12th August 2021
WARREN EWENMAR WASTE DEPOT OPERATING AS USUAL
WARREN GARBAGE PICK UP OPERATING AS USUAL
WARREN PUBLIC AMENITIES (PUBLIC TOILETS)
Will remain open as usual but, will be subject to extra cleaning.
COUNCIL’S HEALTH AND BUILDING SURVEYOR, DEVELOPMENT COMPLIANCE AND RANGER
Will continue to carry out regular duties, provided they are able to maintain appropriate social distancing and masks will be worn at all times. This will also be subject to Covid Safety Plans on building sites, and other Covid safe requirements of the Public Health Orders.
OUTDOOR WORKS PROGRAMS AND FACILITIES MAINTENANCE, (WATER, SEWERAGE, ROADS, PARKS AND FACILITIES)
Will continue wherever permissible, providing social distancing requirements can be maintained, including the 1 person per 4-square rule on sites.
Council’s staff are available to answer your calls between 8.30 am – 5.00 pm weekdays throughout this period.
Council’s phone will be diverted to an on-call officer after normal office hours and weekends and public holidays. In the case of emergencies, please call 000.
Council’s Meeting on Thursday, 26 August 2021 will now be held virtually, with a recording expected to be available the next day on Council’s website.
We ask that the community be patient, remain attentive to social distancing, mask up and take your own precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Council will provide updates as circumstances change.
COVID-19 Testing at the Warren Multi-Purpose Health Service will be by a booked appointment with times between 1.00pm and 2.00pm Monday – Friday. Please telephone ahead on 02 6847 5400 for an appointment, bookings are limited.
Please obey all road signs and speed limits.
Heavy vehicles and large motor vehicles will need to park away from the hospital and walk to the hospital and follow signage. There is no room for heavy and large vehicles to turn around on the hospital grounds.
If you have symptoms or questions about COVID-19, call the National Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080. If you require translating or interpreting services, call 131 450.
For other enquiries, including self-isolation requirements in NSW, visit Service NSW or call 13 77 88.
Should you, or someone you know need support, there are crisis care services available:
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 - A crisis support service that provides short term support at any time for people who are having difficulty coping or staying safe.
Kids Helpline: 1800 551800 - A free, private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25 years.
NSW Mental Health Line:1800 011 511 - Mental health crisis telephone service in NSW.
To report breaches to self-isolation or Public Health Orders call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Stay informed. Download the official government Coronavirus Australia app in the Apple App Store or Google
For information on what financial support and COVID-19 relief are available for individuals and businesses - download an overview here.
What the Stay at Home Orders mean for local businesses
Some businesses will not be able to open. Importantly, financial support is available. Businesses and individuals can find out if they are eligible by visiting nsw.gov.au or calling Service NSW on 13 77 88.
For businesses that can remain open, it is critical to have an up-to-date COVID-19 Safety Plan in place, ensure all customers, staff, delivery drivers and contractors check in and out using electronic check-in systems as required and follow COVID safe behaviours.
With the outbreak of COVID-19 in north western NSW, Warren Shire Council has congratulated the Warren community for its proactive response, with residents swift to take up vaccinations and testing and to comply with Stay at Home Orders.
NSW Health figures to date show Warren Shire Local Government Area (LGA) has administered a total of 3,411 tests. Warren Shire Mayor, Councillor Milton Quigley, says this community response has been encouraging to see and highlights the collective spirit of the Shire.
“The Warren Shire LGA has one of the highest testing rates in regional NSW, with 476 tests for every 1,000 residents, and we are also seeing a high number of people getting vaccinated. With our eligible population sitting at around 1,640 people, over 75% of this group have had their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and over 30% are now fully vaccinated. We should all be very proud the Shire is among the top regional NSW Local Government Areas for vaccination rates.
“These numbers are a credit to our community for their commitment to keep each other safe. It also reflects the huge dedication of our local health care workers and services to protect our residents, as the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve throughout the region,” says Councillor Quigley.
With testing and vaccinations a priority, Warren Shire Council is working closely with services to establish pop-up clinics to reach as many residents as possible.
A COVID-19 testing clinic has been set up at the Warren Multi-Purpose Health Service and is available between 1pm – 2pm by appointment, to book phone 02 6847 5400. With many residents coming out to be vaccinated, the pop-up AstraZeneca vaccination clinic on Friday 20 August was initially fully booked however another nurse has now been secured to help with additional vaccinations. Residents are encouraged to book these available appointments by phoning 02 6847 4326. Rural and Remote Medical Services (RaRMS) Health Warren are also working to arrange additional dates for future vaccination clinics.
Warren Shire Council General Manager, Gary Woodman, says the evolving nature of the situation means Council and Health Services are continually adapting to deliver the best outcomes for Shire residents.
“Our priority is for the community to have access to testing and vaccinations which has meant we are working hard behind the scenes, such as the Warren Shire Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) preparing backup drive-through testing facilities. NSW Health will also soon commence monitoring the Warren Sewerage for traces of the virus.
“Importantly, we are advocating for the community to ensure additional resources reach the Shire. We have been working closely with the Western NSW Local Health District to secure dates for further vaccination clinics in Warren.
“I’m pleased to confirm that the Australian Defence Force, supported by the Western NSW Local Health District, will provide a pop-up COVID-19 vaccination clinic in Warren on 23 August and 24 August, with both AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines available, depending on each person’s eligibility. Further details will be communicated through Warren Shire Council’s website and Facebook page,” says Mr Woodman.
In line with the current NSW restrictions a number of Council services are affected, however Council staff are available to support residents between 8.30am - 5.00pm by phone on 02 6847 6600 or via council@warren.nsw.gov.au
The following Council services are closed to the public: Warren Service NSW Agency; Warren Shire Office; Warren Shire Library; Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre; Warren Shire Depot; Playground equipment within our Parks and Gardens; and Warren Skate Park and Warren Splash Park.
The Warren Ewenmar Waste Depot, Warren Garbage Pickup, Warren Public Amenities (toilets) Outdoor Works Programs and Facilities Maintenance, and Council’s Health and Building team including ranger services, are continuing to operate.
With the Stay-At-Home Orders for Regional NSW extended today until at least 12.01am on Saturday 28 August, Mayor Quigley urges residents to continue their efforts in keeping the Warren Shire safe.
“Currently the NSW Health website shows 8 cases for Warren Shire LGA. I would like to reassure the community that we have been officially notified that these cases are not local cases as they pertain to people who have Warren as their address on their driver’s license but live elsewhere.
“There are currently no cases of COVID-19 in the Warren Shire LGA. By continuing to follow the Stay-At-Home Orders, social distancing, masking-up, getting tested no matter how mild the symptom, and booking a date to vaccinate, we will all do our part to keep all members of the Warren Shire community safe and healthy,” adds Mayor Quigley.
On Saturday afternoon 14th August, 2021 I received a telephone call from our State Member, the Member for Barwon, Roy Butler, advising that Stay at Home Orders for the Warren Shire Council Local Government would be extended until 12.01 am Sunday, 22nd August 2021 as part of a Statewide Lockdown.
The orders, some specifically in regard to the retail sector, are outlined below.
Regional Stay at Home Orders from 5.00 pm Saturday, 14th August 2021
The NSW Government has announced Stay-at-Home Orders for Regional NSW from 5.00 pm 14th August 2021 to minimise movement and protect communities from the evolving COVID-19 outbreak.
The lockdown for all of Regional NSW will be in force for one week until 12.01 am Sunday, 22nd August 2021.
Everyone must stay at home unless they have a reasonable excuse to leave.
They also cannot have visitors in their home from outside their household, including family and friends.
People still can have one visitor at one time to fulfil carers’ responsibilities or provide care or assistance, or for compassionate reasons, including where two people are in a relationship but do not live together.
All hospitality venues must be closed to the public, including pubs, restaurants and cafes, except for takeaway.
In relation to Covid 19 rules in NSW outlined on the nsw.gov.au website and although not specifically listed below it is my understanding that in a broad sense services relating to the support of agriculture and vehicle repairs and maintenance can continue to be provided.
Retail premises are required to close except for:
supermarkets and grocery stores;
shops that predominantly sell food or drinks eg butchers, bakeries, fruit shops and delicatessens, but does not include restaurants or cafes;
chemists and pharmacies;
kiosks;
shops that predominately sell office supplies, pet supplies, newspapers, magazines and stationery, alcohol, maternity and baby supplies, medical or pharmaceutical supplies;
food and drink premises, but only to sell takeaway;
cellar door premises, but only to sell takeaway;
hardware and building supplies;
landscaping material supplies;
rural supplies;
timber yards;
garden centres and plant nurseries;
vehicle hire premises, not including the premises at which vehicles are sold;
shops that predominately carry out mobile phone repairs, and
service stations, banks, post offices, laundromats and dry cleaners.
Anyone who leaves their home must carry a mask with them at all times.
They must be worn when working outdoors, by all school staff, by all people in outdoor markets, outdoor shopping strips, and in outdoor queues waiting for products such as coffee and food.
Every employer across NSW must require their employees to work from home unless it is not reasonably practicable to do so.
It is a reasonable excuse to leave your home for work – but only if it is not practicable to work from home.
As of Monday, small funerals and memorial services of 10 persons only (excluding the persons conducting the service) will be permitted.
The overriding message is Stay at Home.
Do not travel outside the Warren Shire Council Local Government Area unless you have an exemption.
Get tested if you have symptoms or have been to a venue of concern particularly in Dubbo over the notifiable period and then isolate immediately. Please call the Warren MPHS to book an appointment (telephone 02 6847 5400).
Get vaccinated.
Warren Shire Council has put a number of measures in place to protect our community during this time.
To align with the NSW Government’s Stay at Home Orders the following Council businesses are closed to the public:
Warren Service NSW Agency;
Warren Shire Office;
Warren Shire Library;
Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre;
Warren Shire Depot;
Playground equipment within our Parks and Gardens; and
Warren Skate Park and Warren Splash Park.
Continuing to operate as usual are:
Warren Ewenmar Waste Depot;
Warren Garbage pick up;
Warren Public Amenities (toilets);
Outdoor Works Programs and Facilities Maintenance (water, sewerage, roads, parks and facilities); and
Council’s Health and Building team including ranger services.
Although the Warren Shire Office is closed in order to minimise interpersonal contact, staff are available to answer calls and help you between 8.30 am - 5.00 pm.
We all hope that a short, sharp Stay at Home Order will be a circuit breaker in the spread of the very transmissible delta strain of the Covid-19 virus. Please do your bit not just for yourself but for your friends and family by abiding by the regulations.
As of today, Wednesday 18 August, there are NO cases of COVID-19 in the Warren Shire Local Government Area.
The Chief Executive Officer of Western NSW Local Health District, Scott McLachlan, has confirmed that the five(5) positive COVID-19 cases listed on the NSW Health website for the Warren Shire Local Government Area are not local cases as they pertain to people who have Warren as their address on their driver’s license but live elsewhere.
As of the evening of Sunday 15 August, there are no cases of COVID-19 in the Warren Shire Council Local Government Area.
This has been confirmed by Scott McLachlan, CEO Western NSW Local Health District. Information that appeared on the Health NSW website pertains to people who have Warren as their address on their driver’s license but actually live elsewhere.
Thank you to the State Member for Barwon, Roy Butler and State Duty MLC for Barwon Sam Farraway for their assistance in accessing factual information in a timely manner.
Milton Quigley Mayor Warren Shire Council.
Please see below a NSW Health media release regarding the updated Stay at Home Orders for NSW or click here to view link.
Stay-at-home orders for regional NSW from 5pm today
14 August 2021
To protect the people of NSW from the evolving COVID-19 outbreak, new restrictions will be introduced for all of regional NSW, effective from 5pm tonight until 12.01am Sunday 22 August 2021.
Following updated health advice from NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant, stay-at-home orders will apply to all people who live in regional NSW.
This means the whole of New South Wales will be under stay at home restrictions from 5pm today.
This new order will replace any existing orders in regional NSW.
Everyone must stay at home unless they have a reasonable excuse to leave. They also cannot have visitors in their home from outside their household, including family and friends.
People still can have one visitor at one time to fulfil carers' responsibilities or provide care or assistance, or for compassionate reasons, including where two people are in a relationship but do not live together.
All hospitality venues must be closed to the public, including pubs, restaurants and cafes, except for takeaway.
Retail premises are required to close except for:
supermarkets and grocery shops,
shops that predominantly sell food or drinks eg butchers, bakeries, fruit shops and delicatessens, but does not include restaurants or cafes.
chemists and pharmacies,
kiosks
shops that predominately sell office supplies, pet supplies, newspapers, magazines and stationery, alcohol, maternity and baby supplies, medical or pharmaceutical supplies
food and drink premises, but only to sell takeaway
cellar door premises, but only to sell takeaway
hardware and building supplies
landscaping material supplies
rural supplies
timber yards
garden centres and plant nurseries,
vehicle hire premises, not including the premises at which vehicles are sold,
shops that predominately carry out mobile phone repairs.
Service stations, banks, post offices, laundromats and drycleaners can remain open.
Anyone who leaves their home must carry a mask with them at all times. They must be worn when working outdoors, by all school staff, by all people in outdoor markets, outdoor shopping strips, and in an outdoor queues waiting for products such as coffee and food.
Every employer across NSW must require their employees to work from home unless it is not reasonably practicable.
It is a reasonable excuse to leave your home for work – but only if it is not practicable to work from home.
There will be a one-day 'grace period' for planned weddings and funerals in the regional areas that have not already been subject to a lockdown. Those events may go ahead until 12.01am on Monday 16 August 2021, but only with guests from areas that have not already been subject to a lockdown. From Monday, small funerals and memorial services of 10 persons only (excluding the persons conducting the service) will be permitted.
NSW Health urges people to continue to present for testing with even the mildest of cold-like symptoms.
There are more than 440 COVID-19 testing locations across NSW, many of which are open seven days a week. To find your nearest testing clinic, visit our website
The NSW Government has urgently sent additional COVID-19 vaccines to Walgett and has set up a pop up Pfizer vaccination clinic as part of efforts to protect local residents following a positive case.\n
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Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Premier, Sam Farraway said more than 10,000 vaccines are being provided by the Australian and NSW Governments, to be shared across the Western NSW local government areas (LGAs) of concern including Bogan, Bourke, Brewarrina, Coonamble, Gilgandra, Narromine, Walgett and Warren.\n
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A team is in Walgett to administer the free vaccines at the walk in clinic at the Walgett RSL Club Hall at 69 Fox Street, which will be open from 11am-4pm today, Friday 13 August and across the weekend.\n
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Mr Farraway said the jabs will be available to only Walgett residents on Friday, while residents living in the wider Walgett Local Government Area, including Collarenebri and Lightning Ridge, can also receive a free vaccination on Saturday between 9am- 4pm and Sunday 9am-3pm.\n
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“We’ve seen how quickly the Delta virus can spread and the serious health impact it\ncan have, which is why I urge all eligible Walgett residents aged over 16 to head to\nthe RSL today and get the jab,” Mr Farraway said.\n
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“Walgett residents will need to bring proof of address and their Medicare card, wear a\nmask and abide by social distancing rules, as will residents from the wider Walgett Shire when they come to the hub on the weekend.\n
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“People must not attend the clinic if they do not live in the Walgett LGA, if they are\nwaiting for a COVID-19 test result, if they are a confirmed close or casual contact, if unwell or if they have had any other vaccination in the past seven days.”\n
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Walgett residents will be provided with a second dose booking when they receive their vaccination tomorrow or on the weekend.\n
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Around 37 per cent of the Walgett community have received their first jab, with 17 per cent having received their second dose. It is essential that people get both vaccine shots to get the best protection.\n
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The Bogan, Bourke, Brewarrina, Coonamble, Dubbo, Gilgandra, Narromine, Walgett and Warren Local Government Areas are currently under stay-at-home orders until 12.01am Wednesday 19 August 2021.\n
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Deputy Premier John Barilaro thanked the Australian Government for supplying an additional 7,680 vaccines to Commonwealth vaccination centres, GPs and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services across the eight affected Western NSW LGAs.\n
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Mr Barilaro said lifting restrictions across NSW so that people can safely get back to work and get on with life can only be considered after more than six million vaccines are administered.\n
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“Getting the jab greatly reduces your risk of dying if you happen to contract the virus\nand the protection it provides is essential for us to be able to welcome visitors, tourists,\ncustomers, suppliers and investors back to the bush,” Mr Barilaro said.\n
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“Tell your parents, tell your family and tell your friends how they can get the jab and the benefits it will provide for them and our community.”\n
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Mr Barilaro said the 40,000 Pfizer doses that were reallocated to Higher School Certificate students in the hardest hit lockdown areas will be fully replenished across regional NSW by 16 August.\n
From 7pm on Wednesday 11 August Warren Shire and 7 of our neighbouring local government areas including Bogan, Bourke, Brewarrina, Coonamble, Gilgandra, Narromine and Walgett have been placed under NSW Health’s Stay at Home Orders until Thursday 19 August.
Following updated health advice, Stay at Home Orders will apply to all people who live in these areas in Western NSW or have been there on or after 5 August 2021.
This means everyone in these areas must stay at home unless you have a reasonable excuse to leave. Reasonable excuses include:
For work or education if this can’t be done from home
To obtain food or other goods and services for yourself or vulnerable people
Exercising outdoors
To provide care or for compassionate reasons
For medical reasons including COVID-19 testing or to have your COVID-19 vaccination
Warren Shire Council are putting a number of measures in place to protect our community during this time.
To align with the NSW Government’s Stay at Home Orders for the Warren Local Government Area and to protect Council staff, the following Council businesses will be closed to the public and services are being affected:
WARREN SERVICE NSW AGENCY
The Warren Service NSW Agency will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12 August 2021.
WARREN SHIRE OFFICE
The Warren Shire Council Office will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12 August 2021.
WARREN SHIRE LIBRARY
The Warren Shire Library will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12 August 2021.
WARREN SPORTING & CULTURAL CENTRE
The Warren Sporting & Cultural Centre will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12 August 2021.
WARREN SHIRE DEPOT
The Warren Shire Works Depot will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12 August 2021.
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT WITHIN OUR PARKS AND GARDENS
Playground equipment within our parks and gardens will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12 August 2021
WARREN SKATE PARK AND WARREN SPLASH PARK
The Warren Skate Park and Warren Splash Park will be closed from 8.30 am Thursday, 12 August 2021
WARREN EWENMAR WASTE DEPOT OPERATING AS USUAL
WARREN GARBAGE PICK UP OPERATING AS USUAL
WARREN PUBLIC AMENITIES (PUBLIC TOILETS)
Will remain open as usual but, will be subject to extra cleaning.
COUNCIL’S HEALTH AND BUILDING SURVEYOR, DEVELOPMENT COMPLIANCE AND RANGER
Will continue to carry out regular duties, provided they are able to maintain appropriate social distancing and masks will be worn at all times. This will also be subject to Covid Safety Plans on building sites, and other Covid safe requirements of the Public Health Orders.
OUTDOOR WORKS PROGRAMS AND FACILITIES MAINTENANCE, (WATER, SEWERAGE, ROADS, PARKS AND FACILITIES)
Will continue wherever permissible, providing social distancing requirements can be maintained, including the 1 person per 4-square rule on sites.
Council’s staff are available to answer your calls between 8.30 am – 5.00 pm weekdays throughout this period.
Council’s phone will be diverted to an on-call officer after normal office hours and weekends and public holidays. In the case of emergencies, please call 000.
We ask that the community be patient, remain attentive to social distancing, mask up and take your own precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Council will provide updates as circumstances change.
We thank all residents for your patience and cooperation and will continue to bring you updated information as this situation progresses.
A drive through Covid Testing Clinic is available at the Warren Multi Purpose Health Service and is open 9.30 am to 3.30 pm until Sunday, 15 August 2021.
Bookings are not required. Please obey all road signs and speed limits.
Heavy vehicles and large motor vehicles will need to park away from the hospital and walk to the hospital and follow signage. There is no room for heavy and large vehicles to turn around on the hospital grounds.
If you have symptoms or questions about COVID-19, call the National Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080. If you require translating or interpreting services, call 131 450.
For other enquiries, including self-isolation requirements in NSW, visit Service NSW or call 13 77 88.
Should you, or someone you know need support, there are crisis care services available:
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 - A crisis support service that provides short term support at any time for people who are having difficulty coping or staying safe.
Kids Helpline: 1800 551800 - A free, private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25 years.
NSW Mental Health Line:1800 011 511 - Mental health crisis telephone service in NSW.
To report breaches to self-isolation or Public Health Orders call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Stay informed. Download the official government Coronavirus Australia app in the Apple App Store or Google
There are currently three community member positions vacant on the Warren Public Arts Committee.
Council will receive nominations in writing for community membership on the Committee until 4.30pm Thursday, 2 September 2021.
The Committee is currently undertaking work with public murals, sculptures and future strategic planning for public arts in the Warren Shire with its recommendations being provided to Council.
It is expected that Committee Meetings will be held at least every two months while this important work is undertaken. Normally meetings are held approximately four times per year.
Applicants should note that their applications will be made public.
For further information, please contact Council’s General Manager, Gary Woodman, on 02 6847 6600.
Our latest edition of Council News is now available.
From the Mayor's Desk - July Council News
As the COVID-19 restrictions continue throughout NSW, I want to thank our community for following the guidelines and keeping everyone safe.
Due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, the NSW Government has announced a new date for the Local Government Elections. These have now been postponed from 4 September to Saturday, 4 December 2021. The new date means current Warren Shire Councillors will continue to hold their civic offices until Council Elections are held in December. You can read the full details on our Warren Shire Council website.
June has been a busy month for grant applications with a number of submissions for road upgrades and additional improvements for the Warren Showground Racecourse and Carter Oval Sporting Precinct.
Council has also been assisting with applications to the Regional Tourism Activation Fund Program for better road accessibility and improvements to the Burrima Walkway and the Window on the Wetlands Centre.
These grants will all go towards helping to improve infrastructure across the Shire to benefit our community.
Monday 2 August to Sunday 8 August is Local Government Week, giving the local government sector the opportunity to demonstrate the central role that Councils play in communities across New South Wales.
This year’s theme is 'Locally Led', designed to move the conversation to the far- reaching and important role that Councils play as the hubs of their community together with roads, rates and rubbish.
To celebrate Local Government Week, Council is hosting a sausage sizzle for the community to showcase the current and future projects planned for Warren Shire.
Come along to meet Council staff between 10am - 2pm on 6 August in front of the new Community Room at the Administration Centre, 115 Dubbo Street, Warren.
The following maintenance is scheduled for August and September. This schedule may be subject to change with the continued wet weather and the need to commence emergency flood and storm damage restoration works.
Maintenance grade scheduled for August:
Elsinore Road
Mannix Road
Wonbobbie Road
Cullemburrawang Road
Carinda Road – shoulders
Nevertire-Bogan Road – shoulders
Construction on Ellengerah Road in August and September.
Maintenance grade scheduled for September:
Heatherbrae Road
Cremorne Road
Catons Road
Pigeonbah Road
Hatton Lane
Carinda Road - shoulders
To continue to improve our local and regional roads, a number of grant applications were submitted in July, including:
$9,193 for remarking of 40km school zones
$846,349 for Ellengerah Road Construction
$1,333,000 for the bitumen reseal program on priority local roads
$1,727,243 for Nevertire-Bogan Road (Segment 4 and Segment 6) rehabilitation
$1,333,000 for the gravel resheeting program on priority local roads
$621,234 for Tyrie Road construction
$1,679,946 for Old Warren Road (Segments 26 & 28) construction
Through the Flood and Storm Damage Natural Disaster
Declaration, Council is working with Built Environment Collective (BEC) to assess the road damage from the March 2021 storms and flooding.
Council will commence any urgent emergency works from these storm events, such as formation grading and shoulder repairs, as soon as weather and scheduling permits.
The full restoration program will allow Council to fix the extensive damage caused to our infrastructure by this weather event.
Image: The $1.15M upgrade to Wonbobbie Bridge, Wonbobbie Road On Marthaguy Creek is now complete.
The NSW Government has announced a new date for the Local Government Elections which were scheduled for 4th September of this year in response to the changing Covid-19 situation. The new date for Local Government Elections is Saturday 4th December 2021.\n\n
The decision was made by the NSW Government after extensive consultation with and on advice from the NSW Electoral Commission and NSW Health.\n
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What this means for Warren Shire Council in particular is that;\n
Council will not be required to hold by-elections to fill vacancies or to apply to the Minister to dispense with the requirement to hold a by-election before Ordinary Council Elections are held on 4th December 2021
The Mayor, and Deputy Mayor, elected in September 2020 will continue to hold office until Council Elections are held on 4th December 2021
The composition of Joint Organisation Boards may need to change in September 2021 if Mayors of member Councils elected by Councillors are not re-elected.\n
The postponement of the next Ordinary Local Government Elections will not affect the timing of future Council Elections, and the subsequent Ordinary Local Government Elections for Warren Shire Council which will still proceed in September 2024.\n\n
Warren Shire Council meets on the fourth Thursday of every month, with the exception of November, which is replaced with a meeting on the first Thursday of December.
Please find following a selection of highlights from this month’s meeting:
REPORTS OF DELEGATES
Outback Arts Inc. – Item 1
Councillor Serdity provided an update on Outback Arts activities. Outback Arts recently received a visit from Create NSW during their tour of regional arts bodies across the region. Create NSW were impressed with the work and strong stakeholder network Outback Arts has established.
Outback Arts supports and promotes arts and culture in the Far West, servicing the seven local government areas of Bourke, Brewarrina, Bogan, Cobar, Coonamble, Walgett and Warren. To find out more about Outback Arts visit https://www.outbackarts.com.au
POLICY
Vacation Care Policies: Audit review – Item 1
Following an audit review by NSW Department of Education – Early Childhood Education Directorate, Council have supported the public exhibition of a number of new Vacation Care policies. The policies will be on display for 28 days and communicated through Warren Shire Council’s social platforms and website.
REPORTS OF THE GENERAL MANAGER
Outstanding reports – Item 1
Nevertire mobile and internet coverage
Council continues to lobby the Federal and NSW Governments, with a briefing note also provided to the Federal Member for Parkes, the Hon Mark Coulton MP, to include Nevertire in the ‘Black Spot’ funding program. In addition, Council is working with Telstra to improve mobile and internet service in the Nevertire region.
Infrastructure Progress Updates – Item 3
Carter Oval Development
The $1.2M upgrade of Carter Oval and surrounding areas is underway and the design plan now complete, with works funded under the Improvement of Regional Structures Grant.
Irrigation has now been installed for Carter Oval, pathways between sports areas have been constructed, and development of the soccer and cricket fields have commenced. Storage facilities for Little A’s, cricket and soccer have been ordered, with construction scheduled for August.
Warren Showground/Racecourse Upgrade
A works program is currently being developed in consultation with user groups to re-fence the perimeter, re-level all concrete and asphalt floors, replace amenities in the cattleman’s and horse sports camping area, renovate men’s amenities in the main pavilion and amenities in the centre arena, install a new septic tank for the main pavilion amenities and a new septic tank with grease trap for the canteen waste in the centre arena. These works are funded through the NSW Government’s Showground Stimulus Funding Program, Phase 2C.
Warren Central Business District Toilet Amenities
Preparation for development of the Warren Central Business District Toilet Amenities are underway with all necessary services now connected, including the required grease trap facilities. Quotations are now being sought for the facilities, together with further grant funds, to ensure a high-quality facility is provided.
Grant Applications
Council is preparing to commence a number of projects recently funded through the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program (Round 3) amounting to $1,500,000. These projects include:
$500,000 for the Carter Oval Sports Lighting project;
$500,000 for the Monkeygar Creek Macquarie Marshes Bird Viewing project;
$250,000 for water reservoirs and grain silos murals; and
$250,000 for the Warren Showground Racecourse Improvement Program.
Unfortunately, the Bob Christiansen Reserve Walkway and Improvement project was unsuccessful in this round of funding.
Council has submitted applications for the following grants:
$95,944 to the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund for improvements to the Warren Showground Racecourse Complex Equestrian Arena with a focus on women;
$671,000 to the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund for change rooms, toilets, canteen, viewing area and amenities block for Carter Oval Sports Precinct with a focus on women;
$100,000 to the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund Program for the construction of an all-access amenities block at the Warren Pony Club;
$250,000 to the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund Program for upgrades to the Racecourse bar, viewing improvements and jockey rooms; and
$60,000 to the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund Program to replace the Showground female amenities.
REPORTS OF THE DIVISIONAL MANAGER FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
Librarian’s Report on the Warren Shire Library – Item 4
The Warren Shire Library is continuing to develop innovative ways to engage the community, with several new projects to enhance the library’s Outreach program. This includes a new pop-up library service at Warren’s aged-care residential service, Calara House, for residents to access their own library. The Outreach program also provides services to:
Warren Preschool;
Pop-up library for preschool-aged children;
Little Possums;
St Mary’s School;
Warren Central School;
Vacation Care; and
Housebound deliveries.
The library is also reaching more children through online storytime sessions, which are filmed and loaded to the Warren Shire Library YouTube channel each Monday. The online storytime sessions are part of a North Western Libraries pilot scheme managed by the Australian Library and Information Association. Further e-resources are now available with the launch of Hoopla Digital, providing access to a great range of film, music books, audiobooks and graphic novels. Hoopla Digital is available to download through the North Western App and website.
North Western Library Councils are continuing to support important e-resources, with all Council’s allocated an additional $3,000 a year from the State Library Priority Grant Funding.
Follow Warren Shire Library’s Facebook to keep up to date with all the events and happenings – Warren Shire Library
REPORT OF THE DIVISIONAL MANAGER ENGINEERING SERVICES
Works Progress Report: Roads
Major works in progress
Flashing lights have been installed at the Industrial Access Road/Carinda Road/Dubbo Street intersection. It is planned to have the Industrial Access Road designated as a Heavy Vehicle Bypass as soon as possible.
Road maintenance grades completed in July:
Ringorah Road
Old Warren Road
Marra Road
Pleasant View Lane
Booka Road
Killaloo Lane
Road maintenance and construction schedule for August - September:
Maintenance grade on the following roads in August:
Elsinore Road
Mannix Road
Wonbobbie Road
Cullemburrawang Road
Carinda Road – shoulders
Nevertire-Bogan Road – shoulders
Construction on Ellengerah Road throughout August and September.
Maintenance grade on the following roads in September:
Heatherbrae Road
Cremorne Road
Catons Road
Pigeonbah Road
Hatton Road
Carinda Road - shoulders
Road maintenance works may be subject to change with the continued wet weather and the need to commence emergency flood and storm restoration works.
All works listed are in addition to the regular maintenance, patching, edge repairs, slashing and mowing works carried out across all Council facilities. For full details on road maintenance view the WSC July Business Paper.
Grant applications
Grant applications have been made for the following road improvements:
Remarking of 40km school zone - $9,193 through the Australian Government’s Road Safety Program (NSW) and School-Zone Infrastructure Sub-Program Round 2;
Ellengerah Road Construction - $634,762 to NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads Program Round 3 and $211,587 to the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program;
Bitumen reseal program on priority local roads – $1,000,000 to NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads Program Round 3 and $333,000 to the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery Program;
Nevertire-Bogan Road (Segment 4 and Segment 6) rehabilitation - $1,295,432 to NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads Program Round 3 and $431,811 to the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program;
Gravel resheeting program on priority local roads – $1,000,000 to NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads Program Round 3 and $322,258 to the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery Program with a further $10,742 of Council funds;
Tyrie Road construction - $465,926 NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads Program Round 3, $115,308 to the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, and $40,000 Council allocation;
Old Warren Road (Segments 26 & 28) construction – $1,259,960 NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads Program Round 3 and $419,987 to the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program;
Upgrade to Gradgery Lane Bridges - $1,632,751 to NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads Program Round 3 and $544,250 to the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program;
Gibson Way road construction - $1,268,542 NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads Program Round 3 and $422,847 to the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program; and
Collie – Trangie Road (Segment 16) Regional Road 347 - $400,000 to Transport for NSW’s REPAIR Program and Regional Roads Block Grant for $400,000.
Council has also received detailed reports on traffic data for major roads in the shire. To view these in full or for further details on current and future road works in Warren Shire view: WSC July Business Paper
Works Progress Report: Town Services – Item 2
Nevertire Reservoir Refurbishment Preparations are underway for the reservoir refurbishment with temporary pumps and tanks, back-up generator, and container all ordered in July.
Oxley Park River Water Pumping Station
Work to improve the pipe work and pumps at Oxley Park River Pump Station has commenced, with new pumps ordered and expected to be delivered by mid-August, and fabrication due to be complete by the end of August.
Dubbo Street/Burton Street Roundabout
Temporary repairs are planned for works to stop a water leak at the roundabout, this will include new hydrants and stop values to isolate the water.
Sewerage Services
To improve reliability, upgrades to pumps, pipework, guide rails, electrical switchboards, pump controllers and the telemetry at Gunningba Estate and Nevertire sewerage pumping stations. A number of minor electrical and telemetry works will also take place at Thornton Ave, Wilson St, Gunningba Estate, and Garden Ave pumping stations.
Warren Levee Rehabilitation
New applications have been submitted to the Australian Government’s Department of
Home Affairs for the $6M rehabilitation project. Council awaits an outcome on this submission.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
TOWN IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE
A number of recommendations have been agreed in principle for additional works to be included in the Warren Central Business District Upgrade Project. A community consultation program is being developed to gain feedback and input into the upgrade project.
ROADS COMMITTEE
Action checklist – Item 3
Council has provided a submission to the Regional Roads Reclassification and Transfer Committee, and is now awaiting a response.
Reports – Item 4
Construction of Old Warren Road (Segment 22 and 24), Ellengerah Road (Segment 20) and Nevertire-Bogan Road (Segment 02) are now completed.
Council is contributing the following for the Fixing Local Roads Program Round 3:
$1,000,000 from the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Round 3;
$507,734 for Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Round 2;
$600,000 for Roads to Recovery Bitumen Reseal – Shire Roads;
$55,250 for Roads to Recovery Bitumen Reseal – Town Streets;
$40,000 for Tyrie Road; and
$10,742 for other road capital to be determined.
April 2020 and March 2021 Flood and Storm Damage Natural Disaster
Declaration and Programs – Item 4.5
Build Environment Collective (BEC) will be carrying out an assessment, costing and programming for the April 2020 and March 2021 Flood and Storm Damage for Warren Shire Council. To ensure improvements are made promptly for the community, emergency works will be determined and, if possible, undertaken within six months.
WARREN PUBLIC ARTS COMMITTEE MINUTES
Water Reservoirs and Grain Silos Murals
The Warren Stafford Street Water Reservoir mural will progress, with an additional $100,000 in funding received through the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3. This mural is also funded with $2,466 from the NSW Government’s Country Arts Support Program and $34,792 from the Australian Government’s Drought Communities Grant Extension Program.
Funding has also been received through the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3, in addition to the $100,000 for the Stafford Street Water Reservoir mural project, with $130,000 for the Nevertire Water Reservoir mural and $20,000 for public art of private property in the Warren Shire. Community consultation will be scheduled for the new mural projects.
AIRPORT OPERATIONS COMMITTEE
The Airport upgrade is progressing however the recent rain has delayed the completion of the drainage and construction of the terminal building. Site preparation is now underway for the new terminal work to commence, with the aim for construction to be completed by the end of September. The Rural Fire Service building is now in its final stages of planning.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING
A number of items have been considered to improve economic development including developing an overall Warren Shire Tourism Plan and Warren Main Street redevelopment. A submission was also made by Council to extend the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone through Narromine Shire into Warren Shire to take into account the solar farm at Nevertire.
Council met with Regional NSW Business Development Facilitator, Eoin Clohesy, to discuss the area’s economic development. Eoin is now working to develop an economic development strategy and action plan for Warren Shire.
Preliminary works are underway for the Nevertire Reservoir refurbishment, with the contractor setting up their work facilities over the next week.
To allow Council to set up the temporary pump system, at 10pm on Wednesday 28 July the water supply will be shut down for several hours. The water will be restored by 6am on Thursday 29 July 2021.
Once the pump is installed, it will be tested over several days to ensure it is working correctly. During this testing period, you may notice a slight change in water pressure and flow. This should not cause any issues.
We intend to have the reservoir isolated and drained ready for the contractor to fully commence the works on Monday 9 August.
Further details will be provided throughout the duration of the project. Please contact Council on 6847 6600 if you are having issues with your water supply.
Helen Murray is a Collie local who is dedicated to the community. She is involved in the Country Women’s Association (CWA), Rural Fire Service (RFS) and leads the Collie ANZAC Day Service, just to mention a few. Helen is most renowned for her support and guidance to the younger women in Warren Shire.
We spoke to Helen to hear about her commitment to helping the Collie community and her passion for gardening.
A usual morning looks like?
I like to rise early and then the weather decides what I do for the day.
I’m most proud about?
My family, how they have grown up and made a life of their own with partners and children. I adore our grandchildren and try to be part of their formative years.
Favourite place in Warren Shire?
Collie would have to be my favourite place. Is it so quiet and we can live in our own backyard without seeing anyone.
A lot of improvements have been made to our village in recent years, for which we’re very appreciative.
On the weekend you can find me?
In the garden.
3 words that sum up living in Warren Shire?
A listening Shire.
Helen’s Collie journey…
What was your journey to Warren Shire?
I grew up at Curban on the family farm, I rode my bike to primary school and then to meet the bus to Gilgandra for high school. For pocket money, I raised chickens and turkeys and would also charge 2 shillings a garden bed to weed stinging nettles.
Having worked as a Governess in Bourke for six months, I then returned to Gilgandra to work in a Stock and Station Agents until I married Ron.
It was then we moved to Collie, and I settled into life as a farmer’s wife, and a jack of all trades. In 1977 we built our home, which we still live in, and that is when my love of gardening took over. Gardening is a real stress reliever!
After our two sons, John and Robert, left school, I then helped Ron more in the share-farming and contracting business. I’ve always loved the outdoors, so nothing was a problem.
Can you share more about your involvement in the Warren Shire community?
John and Robert both attended Collie primary school, a great little family-oriented school. I was very involved in the P&C Association and did a term as Secretary. During this time, the School Centenary was held (1978), which was a busy but rewarding time for the school and the district. Sadly, the school had to close in 2000 for the lack of children.
Since the school closure, ANZAC Day Services have become an integral part of our Collie community and we now boast a great little gathering for ANZAC Day. I have had the honour of facilitating the Collie Service for around 15 years and I love everyone to feel included.
I’m currently President of the Collie RFS but in the past I have been all three officers (President, Secretary and Treasurer) at the one time. I’ve also served as a truck driver.
The Brigade has had a new lease of life injected over the last few months so I hope it will be here forever.
My passion for flowers, particularly flower arranging, has led me to have the privilege of judging flowers at the Warren Show for several years. It’s such a wonderful opportunity to work with the girls at show time and give some tips on flowers and gardening. I’ve also had the chance to judge at several events across NSW and have thoroughly enjoyed my time working with the stewards involved at each venue.
The Collie CWA will soon mark 100 years. As Secretary, what makes you proud about the CWA’s impact on the community over this time?
I joined CWA not long after I moved to Collie and have enjoyed meeting new people and being involved in such a great organisation. I have been Secretary for a number of years and also held the position of President and Treasurer, Handicraft Officer and International Officer over the years.
Originally formed to help women and children in isolated areas, the CWA now helps women and children in all areas and has a strong voice in Government. Our Collie Branch was formed in 1925, so we will be celebrating 100 years in 2025. It’s an amazing achievement, and we still have minutes and memorabilia dating back to the early times.
Collie CWA has always put its hand up to help anyone in need. In earlier times, the branch helped with the war efforts and there have been many functions over the years to raise funds such as dances, wool days, card days and the list goes on...
During the recent drought, we packed donated food into hampers, along with vouchers, which we delivered throughout the community. We’re a small but dedicated team, and it wouldn’t be a branch without the members. Our Hall is important to the work we do, and we rely a great deal on grant funding to keep it well maintained. It’s been a hard few years, with the drought and COVID-19, so we haven’t been able to arrange fundraisers like we used to.
What would you like people to know about Collie CWA?
Everyone is welcome to join the CWA, it is a great way to meet people and socialise in the community.
You are known as a ‘kind guide’ to young women, how do you support young women across the Shire?
I have had the pleasure of bringing the younger ladies of the area together to form an Evening Branch of CWA. I hope and trust, they will go from strength to strength and know how important this organisation and its venue is in our community.
To nominate a Warren Shire woman to be featured in this series, email media@warren.nsw.gov.au
The NSW Government has announced the Local Government Elections are postponed and will now be held on 4 December 2021.
In the lead up to the elections, here is an overview of useful resources for prospective councillors.
A series of online candidate information sessions will be conducted by the NSW Electoral Commission (NSWEC) between April to August 2021 and will cover the following topics:
Election overview
Election funding and disclosure
Registration of candidates, groups, and third-party campaigners
Electoral material (also known as how-to-vote material)
Nomination process
Early voting and election day voting
Candidate workers and scrutineers
Counting and results
Candidate Webinars - register for upcoming webinars or watch previous recordings here
Candidate Handbook - view the six steps to being a candidate and the candidate handbook here
Further information can also be obtained from Council’s General Manager, Gary Woodman on 02 6847 6600, who can share answers to typically asked questions, including:
The NSW Government will provide $841,500 for upgrades to the Warren Showground in the latest round of the COVID-19 showground stimulus program.
NSW Upper House MP, Sam Farraway said the latest allocation is part of $16.7 million being distributed statewide.
$841,500 for Warren Showground to re-fence the perimeter, re-level all concrete and asphalt floors, replace toilets in the cattleman’s and horse sports camping area, renovate men’s toilets in the main pavilion and toilets in the centre arena, install a new septic tank for the main pavilion toilets and a new septic tank with grease trap for the canteen waste in the centre arena.
“Local showgrounds are multi-use facilities used for a variety of activities such as agricultural shows, rodeos and horse clubs, markets, festivals, men’s sheds, sport and recreation, and caravanning and camping,” Mr Farraway said.
“During bushfires and floods, many also serve as emergency centres for residents, animals, firefighters and other support services, so we want them in good shape.”
Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said a total of $72.47 million had now been allocated to 892 projects at 189 showgrounds, after five rounds of the stimulus program.
“In this latest round, $16.7 million has been provided for 97 projects at 46 showgrounds in NSW,” Mrs Pavey said.
“The projects include the rebuilding of grandstands, pavilions, arenas and stables, and the upgrading of kitchen and amenities blocks, lighting and electrical systems, water and sewerage networks, and roads.
“These investments will ensure showgrounds can continue to serve their communities for many years to come, while building a stronger and safer regional NSW.
“Showground upgrades improve the quality of community infrastructure while stimulating local economies, with work for tradies and materials suppliers.”
The Warren community will benefit from new and improved facilities, thanks to $1.5 million in funding from the Federal Government.
Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt and Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton today joined Warren Shire Council Mayor Milton Quigley on a tour of the four projects being funded under Round 3 of the Coalition Government’s Economic Development Program.
The funding for Warren Shire Council includes:
$500,000 for the Carter Oval Sports Lighting Project
$500,000 for the Monkeygar Creek Macquarie Marshes Bird Viewing Project
$250,000 for water reservoirs and grain silos murals
$250,000 for the Warren Showground Racecourse Improvement Program
Mr Coulton said these projects will enhance tourism to Warren, providing a significant economic boost to the town.
“I’m pleased that this funding will allow Warren Shire Council to undergo four major projects to attract more visitors and increase sporting opportunities in the area,” Mr Coulton said.
“The bird viewing platform will enhance the walkway at the RAMSAR-listed Macquarie Marshes, and the construction of a parking area for buses, caravans and RVs will allow more people to visit this area of environmental significance.
“The addition of murals on silos and water reservoirs across the shire will add to tourism, further enhancing the wider region’s silo art trail which is becoming increasingly popular with tourists.
“The installation of new lighting at the Carter Oval Youth Sports Precinct and upgrades to the facilities at Warren Showground and Racecourse will allow Warren to stage more sporting and community events, attracting visitors from across the state and interstate and creating significant economic stimulus.
“Each of the projects that have been successful so far under Round 3 will help communities by using local suppliers and resources as well as through local knowledge to drive the best outcomes for our region.”
Warren Shire Council Mayor Milton Quigley thanked the Federal Government for its support.
“We very much welcome this funding which will allow significant improvements to our community and regional facilities,” Cr Quigley said.
“Each of these projects will better our community with both new and improved facilities that build on what has already been achieved in the Warren Shire.
“These projects would never have gone ahead however without the financial support provided by the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program.”
Minister Pitt said the Economic Development Program recognises that local communities know how best to tackle the challenges they face, and what kinds of activity would support people in their own areas.
“It was great today to be able to get out on the ground and see firsthand how these economic grants will be able to improve communities like Warren for the better,” Minister Pitt said.
“The Carter Oval lighting project, Monkeygar Creek Macquarie Marshes bird viewing project, water reservoirs and grain silos murals, and the Showground Racecourse Improvement Program are perfect examples of projects that will create new jobs, increase the capacity of communities like Warren by diversifying and strengthening the local economy.
“Across the Basin, people have been dealing with the biggest water reform in Australia’s history along with drought, demographic change and commodity price change.
“This funding recognises the pressures that many people in the Basin’s rural and regional communities are under, and seeks to create new economic activity and job opportunities for impacted communities.”
Close to $39 million of funding has already been approved under Rounds 1 and 2 of the program for a huge array of activities-throughout Murray-Darling Basin communities.
Image caption: Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton (second from left) and Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt (second from right) pictured with Warren Shire Council Mayor Milton Quigley and General Manager Gary Woodman at the Warren Showground and Racecourse.
Communities recovering from bushfires, floods and other natural disasters will now have access to a new one-stop-shop of vital information at nsw.gov.au/resilience-nsw.
The hub has been designed to use on mobile phones, tablets and computers and has state and federal agencies represented, providing easy access to vital information through one portal.
Our latest edition of Council News is now available.
From the Mayor's Desk - June Council News
It’s been another busy month for Warren Shire Council. The Council administration building renovations are nearing completion, and we are all busy preparing for the new financial year.
Council has adopted its 2021/2022 Operational Plan and Estimates, following a 28-day public exhibition period. The plan outlines a robust Capital Works program which includes upgrades to the Warren Memorial Swimming Pool, Warren Cemetery extensions, and urban and regional road rehabilitation, construction and resealing.
To support our program of road upgrades, Council will also be applying to Round 3 of the Fixing Local Roads Program, to fund the following local road priorities:
Completion of Ellengerah Road Construction to the Shire boundary;
Bitumen Reseal Program on priority local roads;
Rehabilitation of Nevertire – Bogan Road Segments 4 & 6;
Gravel Resheeting Program on priority local roads;
Construction of Tyrie Road;
Construction of Old Warren Road Segment 26 and 28;
Upgrade of Gradgery Lane Bridges; and
Construction of Gibson Way.
I recently attended the General Meeting of the NSW Country Mayors' Association and was heartened to see the overwhelming response to continue advocating for better health services for regional areas like ours.
In other news, Council will be hosting a stand at the Warren Youth Foundation’s GROW – Services Expo. Visitors to the Expo can meet with Council staff to hear about current and future projects planned for the Warren Shire community. The GROW – Services Expo is in collaboration with the Royal Flying Doctor Service and will be held at the TAFE grounds on 7 July.
We are ending the month with new COVID-19 restrictions across NSW, and as we continue to navigate the evolving situation, I want to thank Warren Shire residents for helping to keep our community safe during these times.
The $750,000 Nevertire Reservoir Refurbishment Program is underway with Council currently installing a temporary water supply to cover the duration of the project.
The refurbishment will take place over the next few months with engineering works and repainting of the internal and external surfaces of the 21-metre-high mild steel reservoir.
The main scope of works will be the total replacement of the existing internal coating system and overcoating the external coating system. Both internally and externally, there will be structural remediation works performed, replacement of the existing roof and decommissioned items removed.
These upgrades will improve longevity, reduce the possibility of water quality issues, and improve safety when working on the reservoir.
For the works to be undertaken, a temporary water supply will be installed. This involves the installation of two water tanks, pressure pumps and a back-up generator. This installation will be tested over several days prior to the reservoir being isolated and drained ready for the contractor to start work. Residents in the area may notice a change to the water pressure and flow during this time.
Several water supply shutdowns may be required while this work is undertaken however these will be planned to cause as least disruption as possible, with some work undertaken at night.
Further updates will be provided throughout the duration of the project works. Please contact Council on 6847 6600 if you are having issues with your water supply.
The NSW Government’s Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE) has mandated the use of the NSW Planning Portal for all councils across the state from 1 July 2021.
The Planning Portal will be a single online platform for planning applications and certificates, transactions and includes a live map with detailed planning information.
From this date, the following applications need to be lodged via the portal:
Development Applications
Section 4.55 Applications
Complying Development Certificates
Construction Certificates
Subdivision Certificates
Occupation Certificates
The Planning Portal will provide a quicker, simpler, and more transparent online service. Users will be able to:
View, manage and track the progress of applications;
Fees will be payable to Council at this stage;
The Department is developing payment functionality on each of the relevant ePlanning Digital Services to enable applicants to pay all relevant fees online at the point of lodgement.
Fees will eventually be payable through the ServiceNSW payment gateway and may incur a surcharge depending on the payment method.
Upload documents;
Receive email notifications at key stages of the application process; and
View an enhanced digital mapping service that provides easy-to-use, information-rich maps for every address and lot in NSW
To support this transition, with assistance from the NSW Government’s $50,000 grant, Council has developed a consultation office with staff available to assist residents in using the online portal to lodge and track applications.
With the recent COVID-19 restrictions announced by the NSW Government applying to Greater Sydney (including Central Coast, Blue Mountains and Wollongong/Shellharbour LGA’s) and lesser restrictions that apply for regional NSW.
Residents and visitors to Warren Shire are advised the following restrictions are now in place:
Visitors to households will be limited to 5 guests – including children;
Masks will be compulsory in all indoor non-residential settings, including workplaces, and at organised outdoor events;
Drinking while standing at indoor venues will not be allowed;
Singing by audiences at indoor shows or by congregants at indoor places of worship will not be allowed;
Dancing will not be allowed at indoor hospitality venues or nightclubs;
Dancing will be allowed at weddings, but only for the wedding party (no more than 20 people);
Dance and gym classes limited to 20 per class (masks must be worn);
The one person per four square metre rule will be re-introduced for all indoor and outdoor settings, including weddings and funerals; and
Outdoor seated events will be limited to 50% seated capacity.
If you have been in the Greater Sydney area on or since 21 June please have a COVID-19 test and follow the Stay at Home Orders in place for Greater Sydney.
On Saturday new COVID-19 Guidelines were issued in a statement from the Premier, Deputy Premier and the Minister for Health and Medical Research in relation to restrictions in areas outside Greater Sydney. The new measures began at 6pm on Saturday 26th June. As a consequence, the following restrictions now apply in the Warren Shire Council Local Government Area.
People who have been in the Greater Sydney region (including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast and Wollongong) on or after June 21 should follow the stay-at-home orders for a period of 14 days after they left Greater Sydney;
Visitors to households will be limited to 5 guests – including children;
Masks will be compulsory in all indoor non-residential settings, including workplaces, and at organised outdoor events;
Drinking while standing at indoor venues will not be allowed;
Singing by audiences and choirs at indoor venues or by congregants at indoor places of worship will not be allowed;
Dancing will not be allowed at indoor hospitality venues or nightclubs however, dancing is allowed at weddings for the wedding party only (no more than 20 people);
Dance and gym classes limited to 20 per class (masks must be worn);
The one person per four square metre rule will be re-introduced for all indoor and outdoor settings, including weddings and funerals; and
Outdoor seated, ticketed events will be limited to 50 per cent seated capacity.
In relation to Council activities, and for those making use of Council facilities the restrictions will be adhered to as one would expect. In particular, masks will be worn in all indoor settings.
Staff who have been in the Greater Sydney Area on or after the 21st June 2021 have been asked to consider working from home. Staff are however able to leave home for essential work where working from home is not possible.
Please stay safe.
It was heartening to hear that the Covid Vaccination Clinic held last Thursday at the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre was so well patronised that all available appointment times were utilised. The Warren Family Medical Centre in Lawson Street also continues to accept appointments for those who are in eligible age groups for vaccination. We all need to be mindful that the higher the percentage of our population that is vaccinated the safer our community becomes.
The above events have overshadowed the NSW State Budget handed down last Tuesday. Broadly speaking the budget gets a tick of approval from Warren Shire Council.
Of particular interest to our Council was the $240 million set aside to improve road connectivity through the Fixing Local Roads and Bridges Program. We will be applying for grants under this program as will also be the case with the $250 million Fund to support upgrades to regional roads.
The budget also included $149 million for waste and recycling. We will attempt to secure funds for the continued upgrade of the Ewenmar Waste Depot.
$64 million has been set aside over four years in the Future Ready Regions strategy which addresses drought resilience. This is a direct response to Warren Shire Council’s motion to the 2020 Local Government NSW Conference pertaining to Governments underwhelming response to drought.
Additionally, $36 million has been allocated to fund 57 mental health specialists in rural and regional areas.
Warren Shire Council meets on the fourth Thursday of every month, with the exception of November, which is replaced with a meeting on the first Thursday of December.
Please find following a selection of highlights from this month’s meeting:
REPORTS OF THE GENERAL MANAGER
Infrastructure Progress Updates – Item 3
Warren Airport Upgrades The $2.28M Warren Airport Upgrade is in its final stages, with the old terminal building now demolished and removed from the site in preparation for the construction of the new terminal building.
Village Enhancements for Warren, Nevertire and Collie
The Works Program is currently being rescoped for the $1M village enhancement project. Most Nevertire and Collie Village projects have largely been completed.
Warren Showground/Racecourse Upgrade
Quotations have been received and work planned to commence in July for upgrades to the electrical facilities and Cattleman’s Camping Area. Plans to relocate the Cattle Yards will be done in consultation with user groups to ensure a smooth transition.
Warren Tennis Court Upgrade
Upgrades to the Warren Tennis Courts include $48,000 to resurface two concrete tennis courts to artificial turf by Dubbo’s Classic Sporting Facilities.
Groundwater Augmentation
To deliver sustainable groundwater usage, Council is progressing with a $1M augmentation project, with all three cross connections complete, tanks constructed, approximately 2,400m of pipe laid and power supply installed to pumps.
Grant Applications
Council has been successful in a number of grants from the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program (Round 3) amounting to $1,500,000.
Unfortunately, Council has been advised the application submitted for $671,000 to the NSW Government’s Regional Sport Facility Fund grant program for change rooms, male and female toilets, a canteen and viewing area for the Carter Oval Youth Sports Precinct, has been unsuccessful. Council will be applying for funds through other grant opportunities for this important project.
Unfortunately, Council has been advised that the application for $100,000 to the Crown Lands COVID-19 Recovery Support Program for an Accessible Amenities facility at Warren Pony Club has been unsuccessful.
Delivery Program Progress Report – Item 4
Council is in its final year of the four-year Delivery Program (2017/18 – 2020/21) with all actions either on track or commenced. The Delivery Program Progress Report covers progress on activities undertaken by Council that support delivery of the Community Strategic Plan. This includes access to community services, employment and health services, community safety, economic planning, and town planning including maintenance for roads and amenities. View the full Delivery Program Progress Report – WSC June Business Paper
Regional Collaboration Proposed Replacement of the Orana Joint Organisation – Item 5
Council has supported, in concept, the proposal of a new regional collaboration entity and will support its development by providing funds which were allocated in the budget for the Orana Joint Organisation. The proposal aims to replace the Orana Joint Organisation with a more cost-effective, collaborative group of Councils committed to the future of the region.
2021 Local Roads Congress – IPWEA – Item 6
Councillor Brewer and General Manager, Mr Gary Woodman, attended the Institute Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) 2021 NSW Local Roads Congress, which included presentations by IPWEA NSW & ACT President, Grant Baker, President of the Australian Local Government Association and Local Government NSW, Councillor Linda Scott, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, the Hon. Paul Toole MP, and Shadow Minister for Rural Roads, the Hon. Mick Veitch, MLC.
At this event, Minister Toole MP announced the opening for Round 3 of the Fixing Local Roads Program, in which Councils can apply for grants of up to $3M for a single road project. It is expected that successful projects will be complete within two years to ensure local communities can benefit quickly.
Warren Shire Council will be applying for grant funding for the following local road priorities:
Completion of Ellengerah Road Construction to the Shire boundary;
Bitumen Reseal Program on priority local roads;
Rehabilitation of Nevertire – Bogan Road Segments 4 and 6;
Gravel Resheeting Program on priority local roads;
Construction of Tyrie Road;
Construction of Old Warren Road Segment 26 and 28;
Upgrade of Gradgery Lane Bridges; and
Construction of Gibson Way.
REPORTS OF THE DIVISIONAL MANAGER FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
Adoption of the 2021/2022 Operational Plan and Estimates– Item 4
Council has adopted its 2021/2022 Operational Plan and Estimates. Following a consultation period from 28 April – 26 May, the draft plan was advertised in the Warren Weekly and on Council’s website and Facebook platform. Throughout this period no submissions or comments on the Draft 2021/2022 Operational Plan & Estimates were received.
Council is proposing a robust Capital Works program which includes upgrades to the Warren Memorial Swimming Pool, Warren Cemetery extensions, and urban and regional road rehabilitation, construction and resealing.
It is noted that there was one amendment to the Draft 2021/2022 Fees and Charges with interest on overdue rates changing from 7% to 6%, as advised by the Office of Local Government.
REPORT OF THE DIVISIONAL MANAGER ENGINEERING SERVICES
Works Progress Report: Roads
Major works in progress
The $1.15M upgrade to Wonbobbie Bridge, Wonbobbie Road in Marthaguy Creek is now complete, with line markings finished in May.
Ellengerah Road – the $432,000 rural road construction is now complete, with line marking finished in June.
Old Warren Road – Segment 22 to 24 – the $710,000 rural road construction is now complete, with line marking finished in June.
Nevertire Bogan Road – Segment 02 – the $610,000 rural road rehabilitation is now complete, with line marking finished in June.
Road maintenance grade completed in June:
Ringorah Road – shire road
Killaloo Lane – shire road
Marra Road – regional road
Road maintenance and construction schedule for July - August:
For additional safety measures, flashing lights/signs will be installed at the Industrial Access Rd/Corinda Rd/Dubbo St intersection at the end of June.
All works listed are in addition to the regular maintenance, patching, edge repairs, slashing and mowing works carried out across all Council facilities. For full details on road maintenance view the WSC June Business Paper
Works Progress Report: Town Services – Item 2
Warren Netball Courts
The $30,000 netball court upgrade is now complete with new irrigation and hydro-turf installed. The upgrade is funded through the Australian Government’s Drought Communities Program – Extension.
Warren Cemetery Stage 3 Council is continuing to develop a Warren Cemetery Masterplan. Installation of an on-site sewer management system and toilet facilities are now complete, and plans for an additional pathway and garden beds will be established.
Sewerage Services
To improve reliability, a number of items including pumps and starters will be replaced across Wilson St, Gunningba Estate, Garden Ave and Nevertire Sewerage Pumping Stations.
Construction of Warren Waste Depot Transfer Station at the Ewenmar Waste Management Facility – Item 4
Council has investigated options to complete this project and will engage Council day labour staff and the services of local contractors to assist with construction of the Warren waste depot transfer station.
REPORT OF THE MANAGER HEALTH & DEVELOPMENT
Works Progress Report: Health & Development Services - Item 2
A $10,000 project to complete the Tiger Bay Wetland Walkways will commence with Council successful in a grant from the Central West Councils Environment & Waterways Alliance. The project is funded by a $5,000 grant from Central West Councils Environment & Waterways Alliance, and Warren Shire Council contributing an additional financial and in-kind amount of $5,000.
Vacation Care Policies
A number of Vacation Care Policies are on public exhibition until Friday, 9 July.
Interested community members are encouraged to read the draft policies and submit any comments to Council. Any comments received will be taken into consideration.
All residents and stakeholders are invited to submit feedback via:
Mr Duncan Lovelock, Principal of Warren Central School, gave Council a presentation sharing an overview of the six years improvement of Warren Central School and the future of education.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
MANEX
Warren Shire Council received minutes from Council’s most recent Management Executive meeting (MANEX) with the following items:
Local Road Funding Projects
With road upgrades a priority, Council has a project team committed to overseeing road construction and maintenance, including sourcing funding through grant applications.
RDA-Orana will be undertaking a three-month research project to investigate the provision of housing in the Orana region.
COUNTRY MAYORS ASSOCIATION OF NSW
Warren Shire Mayor, Councillor Milton Quigley, attended the Country Mayors Association of NSW and of particular note to Warren Shire were representations to address the lack of health and mental health services in rural and remote communities such as ours.
Warren Shire residents affected by the floods in April 2020 or March 2021 can now apply for the Disaster Recovery Funding Assistance (DRFA).
Assistance available under the DRFA may include:
help for eligible people whose homes or belongings have been damaged
support for affected local councils to help with the costs of cleaning up and restoring damaged essential public assets
concessional interest rate loans for small businesses, primary producers and non-profit organisations
freight subsidies for primary producers, and
grants to eligible non-profit organisations.
For information on personal hardship and distress assistance, contact Service NSW on 13 77 88. To apply for a concessional loan or grant, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au.
Further information on disaster assistance is available on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au and Service NSW at https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/floods
This month Warren Shire Council launches its Women of Warren Shire series, featuring many talented women from across the region.
The series will profile one local woman each month to share her story, provide insights into life in Warren and highlight her impact on the shire community.
Warren Shire Council General Manager, Mr Gary Woodman, says the series is a way to recognise the huge contribution these individuals make to Warren Shire.
“There are incredible people doing amazing things in Warren Shire and this series is an opportunity to showcase the women who are making a difference to our community,” says Mr Woodman.
“We have local women who have created innovative businesses, are supporting arts and culture, and providing opportunities to our youth through workshops, activities and sport. There are stories of women making an impact all over the shire.”
“This series is a way to recognise our local women, showcase the diverse range of talent that exists in Warren Shire, grow our regional profile and continue to build a real sense of pride in our community”.
Frances Evans, renowned Violinist and Artistic Director of this year’s inaugural Warren Chamber Music Festival, will be the first Women of Warren Shire to be profiled. Ms Evans is thrilled to kick off the series and has a long list of women she plans to nominate.
“There are countless indefatigable, inspired and hard-working women in and around the Warren Shire who are putting special things together. It may be food, entertainment, learning materials, craft, agriculture, data analysis, art and design…this list could be endless,” says Ms Evans.
“There is cause to celebrate these women and their important support crews. Some are seen, some are hidden, they are all making a marvellous difference in our time and in our place”.
The Women of Warren Shire series launches this month and will be featured across all Council communication platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn and the monthly Council newsletter, and distributed to all local and regional media outlets.
To nominate a Warren Shire woman to be featured in the series, email media@warren.nsw.gov.au
Frances Evans is a renowned violinist and the driving force behind this year’s inaugural Warren Chamber Music Festival. She is also a Warren local, growing up in the Shire, and is back to raise her young family on the farm.
Frances is our very first Women of Warren Shire profile. We spoke to Frances to hear about her love of music, the amazing experiences it has given her, and the joy of being back in Warren Shire.
A usual morning looks like…
Rise and shine early to my baby girl singing out for me. It is then time to brew a fresh pot of coffee or drink the one my husband has already made for me! Then it is getting the children and I dressed. It’s either books in front of the fire, some music, farm jobs or pre-school drop off for my eldest.
I’m most proud about?
My beautiful growing family. Our family time is so precious to all of us. I’m also proud of what I’m giving back to the community with my music. My parents have made this happen.
Fondest memory of growing up in Warren?
Probably farm life. Growing up on Eurobla and attending the local Sunday school was a lovely bush upbringing.
Favourite place in Warren Shire?
Love Collie. I went to school there!
On the weekend you can find me…
Playing with the kids or cutting galvanised burr!
3 words that sum up living in Warren Shire?
Freedom. Pace. Family.
Frances’ journey with music
How did your passion for music start?
My Mum is a beautiful Soprano. ALL my grandparents were musicians in their own right, and also my great grandparents.
My Mum and Dad encouraged me to learn from a young age. I guess I enjoyed the challenge and liked performing, it still gives me a buzz. When you are encouraged and acknowledged in certain areas, you usually follow those paths.
What was your journey after leaving Warren?
I completed secondary school at Dubbo Christian School and enjoyed having lead roles in musicals. They are my fondest memories of school. I then ran my own violin studio growing it from just 12 wonderful students to 72.
I needed an injection of inspiration and education so moved to Canberra to study my Bachelor of Music at the Australian National University School of Music. Whilst there, I received scholarships and did well in some violin competitions. It was an encouraging space to grow and I was able to take advantage of some great chamber music experiences. I auditioned for the Australian Youth Orchestra and was accepted into the entire year's program. It was unforgettable. I finally had the chance to play full symphonic works like Beethoven and Mahler Symphonies. It was also my first opportunity to play with international superstar soloists. This is where I first came into contact with the late Richard Gill OAM, Australia’s most formidable and passionate music educator.
After undergrad studies, it was post-grad that led me to Tasmania and more opportunities to play chamber and orchestral music with wonderful Australian and international musicians. Gratefully, another scholarship followed, and I enjoyed building relationships with performers from around the nation.
I completed studies in Education and took a posting in Dubbo and Melbourne. A career highlight, and challenge, was being Director of Music at Caroline Chisholm Catholic College. With an amazing team of teachers, we transformed music learning for the students. It was so much fun.
What have been some of your highlights as a Violinist?
Having the opportunity to perform particular works or repertoire with professional musicians and former classmates will stay with me forever. Seven of the nine Beethoven Symphonies, Mahler Symphonies, Rachmaninov’s Symphonic Dances, playing in the orchestra for Sibelius, Rachmaninov, Tchaikovsky, Grieg and Dvorak concertos, Appalachian Spring (thanks to the Warren Chamber Music Festival, now performed twice!), Schoenberg’s Verklarte Nacht and just countless more magical chamber music moments.
When in Canberra I performed in a String Quartet and various ensembles with my teachers and mentors Tor Fromhyr, David Periera and Maz McBride. This was fun. It usually ended in great food and wine. We regularly performed for visiting international dignitaries at Parliament House. I’ve played for royalty!
Whilst at university, I was invited by the then Governor-General, Dame Quentin Bryce AD, CVO, to perform at her residence in Yarralumla. She said she enjoyed my Violin Sonata in E minor by Edward Elgar – much to my relief.
What brought you back to Warren Shire?
Family is all to me. So when Nick, my wonderful husband, suggested we ‘head west’ to have a family and move back home to Eurobla, I think I screamed and cried. He was already performing regularly as a Clarinettist with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Orchestra Victoria, so it did come with sacrifices. But we have never, ever looked back.
This year you launched the inaugural Warren Chamber Music Festival, can you share more about the inspiration behind the festival and its success?
The inspiration came from my two dear friends Dr John Burke and Phil Leman. They thought with my experiences and passion we could all combine forces to make something happen. We certainly did that!
After considerable committee meetings with our two additional committee members, Marieanne Noonan and Rod Sandell, it was simply getting in touch with the right people, selecting some music…and a few other odd jobs I guess.
How are you bringing your passion for music and education to the Warren Shire community?
I love to perform because it gives me joy and it brings great joy to others. If I can help other families to experience all the wonders, challenges, happiness and benefits of music-making, then I will continue to bring whatever I can to make that happen.
So many people now understand the scientific and social benefits of learning and making music. I will continue to teach music in the Warren Shire for many, many years to come.
To nominate a Warren Shire woman to be featured in this series, email media@warren.nsw.gov.au
Fire and Rescue NSW employs around 3300 highly trained, professional on-call firefighters throughout NSW to respond to emergencies and share a commitment to helping their local community. We are currently looking for firefighters in your area.\n\n
Our firefighters are a diverse group of men and women who balance their work, study and family commitments. They enjoy being part of a team, working with the community and other emergency services.\n
On-call firefighters provide a high standard of response to fire and emergency situations. All our firefighters use specialised vehicles and equipment to prevent and reduce the risk of fire, potential loss of life and property. They also work closely with the local community to increase fire safety awareness and promote fire prevention. If this sounds like you then please visit our website\nwww.fire.nsw.gov.au
Our latest edition of Council News is now available.
From the Mayor's Desk - May Council News
It’s been a month of celebrating our community starting with ANZAC services in Collie and Warren and most recently the 141st Warren Show (read more about both below). May also saw the very first Warren Chamber Music Festival which was a stellar event over three days. It is wonderful to see the community come together at events like these and create such a strong sense of pride.
Advocating for better access to health services continues to remain a priority for Council, with Councillor Druce and I presenting at the Inquiry into Health Outcomes and Access to Health and Hospital Services in Rural, Regional and Remote NSW. Council in consultation with the Warren Heath Action Committee (WHAC), identified five areas of concern regarding the provision of health services in Warren:
1. Provision of GP services;
2. Recruitment, training and upskilling of health staff particularly in relation to the Multi-Purpose Service;
3. Aged Care, including the need for a Dementia Specific Unit;
4. Community education and information relating to the range of Allied Health Services available in Warren; and
5. More consistent delivery and accessibility to Allied Health Services.
We will continue our work in this area to push for better health outcomes for our community.
We are also continuing with a number of infrastructure upgrades across the Shire and Our Region NSW have recently featured films of both the Airport upgrade and the new Water Park – watch these on the WSC Facebook page. We are grateful for the NSW Government's assistance in funding both these important projects for our Warren Shire community.
PLAY CENTRE RUNNING IN JUNE / JULY 2021 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Warren Vacation Care Service is organised and supervised by fully qualified childcare workers with planned activities for the children to participate in.
WHEN:
Week 1: Monday 28th June to the Friday 2nd July 2021
Week 2: Monday 5th July to the Friday 9th July 2021
WHERE: Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre
TIME: 9:00am to 4:00pm each day
COST: $10.00 per child, paid daily, exact amount would be appreciated (due to COVID-19)
Payment is required on entry, without payment entry will be refused.
Limited availability. Council is only regulated for a maximum of 30 children per day.
AGE: School Children Only (Kindergarten – Year 6).
PROVIDE: Healthy and nutritious Lunch/Meal/Snacks/Drinks and a SunSafe Hat.
REQUIREMENTS:
All new 2021 enrolment forms and regular excursion notes will need to be filled out prior to enrolment. These can be downloaded from Council website or picked up from the Council Office.
All Children who are attendingVacation Care will need a new enrolment form,
An updated Immunisation Certificate for each child is to be provided.
If your child has any medical conditions e.g Asthma, Vacation Care staff must have a copy of an up-to-date health plan. (which needs to be prepared in consultation with and signed by a medical practitioner). Please contact Erin prior to enrolment.
You must sign child/children in and out, each day.
Warren Shire Council meets on the fourth Thursday of every month, with the exception of November, which is replaced with a meeting on the first Thursday of December.
Please find following a selection of highlights from this month’s meeting:
REPORTS OF THE GENERAL MANAGER
Infrastructure Progress Updates – Item 3
Warren Airport Upgrades
The $2.28M Warren Airport Upgrade is in its final stages, with the new terminal building frame designed and purchased, and quotations received for its construction.
Warren Levee Rehabilitation
Member for Parkes, The Hon. Mark Coulton MP, visited the levee on 25 April 2021, following a briefing from the Mayor and General Manager. Council continues to seek seeking funding for this $6M project, with funding applications submitted to the Australian Government’s Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development & Communications.
Carter Oval Development
Consultation continues with the community and user groups to develop a new Draft Masterplan for the Carter Oval Sporting and Recreational Precinct, including the Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool. Development of the soccer field has commenced and plans for the sporting precinct will be updated next month to allow for current and future construction for the area.
Warren Showground/Racecourse Upgrade
The $1.4M Showground/Racecourse upgrade continues with access now available to the Ron McCalman Building, and completion of the water and electrical facilities at Showie’s Camping ground finished in time for the Warren Show. Following the Warren Show, work will commence on the electrical facilities upgrade for the Cattleman’s Camping Area.
The Warren Jockey Club has also been successful in obtaining a grant of over $40,000 from the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund Program to upgrade the judging and camera towers.
Groundwater Augmentation
To deliver sustainable groundwater usage, a $1M augmentation project is continuing with chlorination systems ordered for Ellengerah and Bore Flat.
Warren Sewerage Treatment Plant Upgrade
The $6.1M Sewerage Treatment Plant upgrade is progressing with 80% of the works now complete. In addition to the request sent to Infrastructure NSW for a funding contribution toward increased project costs, Council has endorsed the creation of an easement with Essential Energy for the installation of overhead powerlines.
Warren Central Business District Toilet Installation
Land has been purchased and subdivided to commence the $160,000 project to install a toilet block to accommodate community members in the Warren Central Business District. A quotation for this work is currently with Vendor Panel.
Grant Applications
Council has been successful in obtaining a grant of $841,500 (incl. GST) from the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment – Crown Lands Showground Stimulus Funding Program Phase 2.This grant will be used for the following projects at the Warren Showground/Racecourse:
Proposal 654: Replace male and female amenities in cattleman's and horse sports camping area ($242,000 incl. GST);
Proposal 656: Renovate male toilets at main pavilion ($110,000.00 incl. GST);
Proposal 657: Install new septic receival tank for main pavilion toilets ($49,500 incl. GST);
Proposal 658: Renovate toilet block at centre arena ($176,000 incl. GST);
Proposal 659: Install new septic receival tank at centre arena toilets with grease trap for canteen waste disposal ($49,500 incl. GST);
Proposal 661: Re-level all concrete and asphalt floors in all pavilions ($99,000 incl. GST); and
In addition to the grant applications reported last month, Council has submitted new applications for the following grants:
$671,000 to the NSW Government’s Regional Sport Facility Fund for change rooms, male and female toilets, a canteen and viewing area for Carter Oval Youth Sports Precinct; and
$100,000 to the Crown Lands COVID-19 Recovery Support Program for an Accessible Amenities facility at Warren Pony Club.
Council continues to wait a response regarding grant applications submitted to the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program (Round 3) for projects including:
$1M for Warren Showground/Racecourse Complex Improvement Program;
$1M for Warren Shire Tourism, Business Development and Macquarie Marshes Signage and Shire Mural Program;
$400,000 for the Carter Oval Lighting Project;
$500,000 for the Monkeygar Creek Macquarie Marshes Bird Viewing Platform and Parking Project; and
$900,000 for Bob Christensen Reserve Walkway and Improvement Project.
REPORTS OF THE DIVISIONAL MANAGER FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
Works Progress Report: Finance & Administration Projects – Item 3
Upgrades to the Council Administration Building are in the final stages, with the additional office, front service area and new community room now fully operational and in use. With the new space, the General Manager, Mayor and Executive Assistant have relocated offices and the Engineering Services Department have moved from the Depot, creating a more efficient and collaborative workspace for Council staff.
Collie Community Shed – Donation of Annual Rates & Charges – Item 6
To support the Collie Community Shed Incorporated, Council will donate the annual rates and charges to the not-for-profit organisation to the value of $878 per annum, under an agreement to retain the vacant land for the future of the shed.
Service NSW Agency Agreement – 1 Year Extension – Item 7
Council has renewed the Service NSW agreement for an additional year from 1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022 to ensure the Warren community has access to this essential service.
REPORT OF THE DIVISIONAL MANAGER ENGINEERING SERVICES
Works Progress Report: Roads
Major works in progress
The $1.5M upgrade to Wonbobbie Bridge, Wonbobbie Road in Marthaguy Creek is nearing completion, with line marking to be completed by the end of June.
Carinda Road, Industrial Access Road – plans to designate the Access Road as a Heavy Vehicle Bypass as soon as possible.
Ellengerah Road – the $432,000 rural road construction is nearly complete, with line-marking scheduled for late May.
Old Warren Road – Segment 22 to 24 – the $710,000 rural road construction is nearly complete, with line marking scheduled for late May.
Nevertire Bogan Road – Segment 02 – the $610,000 rural road rehabilitation is nearly complete, with line markings scheduled for late May.
Tyrie Road – the $240,000 rural road construction is on hold until sufficient funds can be sourced from future grant submissions.
Collie-Trangie Road – the $800,000 road rehabilitation is in progress, with preliminary designs underway.
The $1.6M rehabilitation of Warren Road Regional Road, Segments 12 and 14 – consultation has been ongoing with the Federal Government, Infrastructure NSW, Transport for NSW and Coonamble Shire Council representatives to release the deeds. A resolution has yet to be determined and the project is included in the draft 2021/2022 estimates.
Gravel re-sheeting is underway on the following roads:
Old Warren Road, Segment 28; and
Canonba Road, Segment 12 and Segment 14, up to the boundary with the Bogan Shire.
Bitumen resealing is complete on the following roads:
Ellengerah Road, Segment 04
Old Warren Road, Segment 02
Thornton Road, Segment 02
Tottenham Road, Segment 30
Tottenham Road, Segment 02
Wambianna Road, Segment 18
Road maintenance and construction schedule for June - July:
Maintenance grade on the following shire roads:
Ringorah Road
Mullengudgery Road
Buddabadah Road
Elsinore Road
Old Warren Road
Killaloo Lane
Booka Road
Pleasant View Lane
Castlebar Road
Bundemar Road
Wonbobbie Road
Work on the following regional roads:
Marra Road – Maintenance grade
Billybingbone Road – Maintenance grade
Collie Trangie Road – Rehabilitation
All works listed are in addition to the regular maintenance, patching, edge repairs, slashing and mowing works carried out across all Council facilities.
Council has also received detailed reports on traffic data for major roads in the shire. To view these in full or for further details on current and future road works in Warren Shire view: WSC May Business Paper
Works Progress Report: Town Services – Item 2
Warren Netball Courts
The netball court upgrade is in its final stages with the turf sprayed and a new irrigation system installed. The upgrade is funded through the Australian Government’s Drought Communities Program – Extension.
Warren Cemetery Stage 3
Council is continuing to develop a Warren Cemetery Masterplan. Installation of an on-site sewer management system is now complete, with the toilet facility expected to be installed early June.
Nevertire Reservoir Refurbishment
The $750,000 infrastructure upgrade has commenced, with a tender awarded to RMP Abrasive Blasting Pty. Ltd. for engineering works and repainting of the internal and external surfaces to improve the reservoir.
Collie and Nevertire Water Supply
Council will apply for grant funding to improve the Nevertire and Collie chlorination system, including developing the required facilities in Collie. A grant will also be sourced to upgrade the water storage in Collie which includes replacement of the stands and tanks to ensure a consistent standard of pressure and manage electricity and mechanical failure.
Construction of Warren Waste Depot Transfer Station at the Ewenmar Waste Management Facility – Item 4
A tender was not awarded for the construction of the Warren Waste Depot Transfer Station, due to the only application for the works greatly exceeding the available budget.
Council will carry out further investigations to determine the best outcome for this project, with a further report to come back to Council in June.
REPORT OF THE MANAGER HEALTH & DEVELOPMENT
Works Progress Report: Health & Development Services - Item 2
Council have submitted a grant application to the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership for a wireless scoreboard at the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre.
NSW Planning Portal and Grant Assistance – Item 3
Council is preparing for the introduction of an electronic planning portal. With assistance from the NSW Government’s $50,000 grant, Council is developing a consultation office to ensure a smooth transition, with staff assisting customers to use the online portal to lodge applications. The online planning portal will be in use from 1 July and will allow for better reporting and statistical data, greater transparency and an improved process for planning applications.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
SPORTING FACILITIES COMMITTEE
Action Checklist - Item 4
Victoria Park Masterplan
The draft Victoria Park Masterplan was circulated to the May 2021 Sporting Facilities Committee. Prior to implementation, the plan will be reviewed by stakeholders for final consultation.
Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre - Item 7
Council will consider setting aside $25,000 in the draft 2022/2023 Estimates to allow for Council co-contributions in applying for grant funding for maintenance of the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre, to improve the roof downpipes and guttering. All other maintenance including water ingress in the mezzanine floor is expected to be remedied within the maintenance budget.
WARREN LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
The RFS reported 38 incidents between October 2020 to March 2021, with the majority of these caused as a result of harvesting equipment.
It is noted that in June a new Police Sergeant will be commencing in Warren. Council looks forward to continuing to work with local law enforcement to ensure the safety and security of our shire community.
WATER AND SEWERAGE COMMITTEE
Failure of River Water Pumps at Ellengerah and Oxley Park Reservoirs – Item 5.3
Action be taken to replace the Ellengerah Road river pumps with like for like as soon as possible. Council is also investigating the current system at Oxley Park Pump Station to modify pipework and pumps, with the aim to use the same pump type at Ellengerah Road River Pump Station for improved efficiency.
MANEX
Warren Shire Council received minutes from Council’s most recent Management Executive meeting (MANEX) with the following Human Resources item:
Veterans Employment Program (VEP) – item 4.6
Council is participating in the Veterans Employment Program to provide job opportunities to local Veterans. This will include information on the Warren Shire Council website acknowledging Veterans and including a Veteran indicator question on job applications. It is hoped that participating in the program will attract a broad talent pool to Warren Shire Council.
On Wednesday, 19th May Councillor Druce and I made a presentation in Dubbo to the NSW Upper House Parliamentary “Inquiry into Health Outcomes and Access to Health and Hospital Services in Rural, Regional and Remote NSW”.
Council had previously made a written submission to the Inquiry.
Council in consultation with the Warren Heath Action Committee (WHAC) had identified five areas of concern regarding the provision of health services in Warren. These were:
Provision of GP services;
Recruitment, training and upskilling of health staff particularly in relation to the Multi Purpose Service (MPS);
Aged care including the need for a Dementia Specific Unit;
Community education and information relating to the range of Allied Health Services available in Warren; and
More consistent delivery and easier access to those Allied Health Services.
The point was made quite strongly that the provision of adequate GP services in both the private practice setting and as Visiting Medical Officers at the MPS was the cornerstone of good health outcomes for us.
Our Monthly Council Meeting took take place last Thursday.
On Friday I travelled to Sydney for a meeting of the Country Mayors Association. Those speaking included Clr Linda Scott, President Local Government NSW(LGNSW), The Hon Melinda Pavey, MP, Minister for Water, Property and Housing and Mr Shane Fitzsimmons, Resilience NSW.
We had all looked forward with anticipation to the Warren Pastoral and Agricultural Association’s Show on Saturday. It certainly didn’t disappoint with a great Show being staged with an excellent crowd in attendance. Congratulations to President, Ashley Bell, Secretary, Sophie O’Brien, the Committee, Stewards and the large cohort of volunteers whose efforts made the Warren Show such a fabulous community event. The newly opened Ron McCalman Pavilion is certainly a quality addition to facilities at the Showground/Racecourse. It attracted many favourable comments.
Council has been successful in a grant of $765,000 from the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment - Crown Lands Showground Stimulus Funding Program Phase 2, for further upgrades to the Showground/Racecourse including improved amenities, pavilion flooring, and Showground perimeter fencing.
Other key infrastructure projects are progressing, with 80% of the new Sewerage Treatment Works now complete, preparation for construction of the new Airport terminal building underway, and the $1.5M Wonbobbie Bridge upgrade completed at the end of May.
Council is continuing with a rolling schedule of planned road maintenance and construction. Scheduled works for the coming months include:
Regional roads:
Marra Road – Maintenance grade (June)
Collie-Trangie Road – Rehabilitation (June/July)
Billybingbone Road – Maintenance grade (July)
Maintenance grading will also occur on the following shire roads:
On Saturday 29 May, the Warren Racecourse will come to life for the 141st annual Warren Show.\n
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This year, Warren Shire Council will have a stall at the show with Councillors there throughout the day to meet and speak with shire residents.\n
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The Council Stall will feature information on current and future projects including the Gym, Library, Carter Oval sporting precinct, Warren Airport upgrade and more.\n
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Council’s General Manager, Mr Gary Woodman, says this important community event provides a chance for locals to speak first-hand with councillors about all aspects of Warren Shire life.\n
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“With Councillors hosting the stall, it is a great opportunity for locals to meet face-to-face to give feedback, ask questions and share ideas to continue to improve our region,” says Mr Woodman.\n
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“Warren Shire Council looks forward to being part of and supporting such an important community event.”\n
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The Warren Show has a long history in Warren and is a day for the community to come together and celebrate the talents of local shire residents. From art, literary and baking exhibits, to horse riding and sheep judging, the show promotes a wide range of agriculture and produce from the Shire.\n
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For more information about the Warren Pastoral & Agricultural Association’s Warren Show, including the schedule, go to warrenshow.com.au
\n(Pictured: Warren Shire Councillors, please note Mr Rex Wilson OAM resigned from Council in April 2019)
The Mobile Service Centre will be located near the Services Club, Dubbo Street on Thursday, 3 June and Friday, 4 June between 9am and 4pm.
Visit the Mobile Service Centre to find out about Australian Government payments and services for rural families, older Australians, students, job seekers, people with disability, carers, farmers and self-employed people.\n\nInformation about Department of Veterans’ Affairs programs and support services for veterans and their families will also be available.\n\n
Staff can provide you with information and support. They can also help you create a myGov account. myGov is a simple and secure way to access government services online.\n
For more information, go to: servicesaustralia.gov.au/mobileoffice\n \n \n \n
The NSW Government has announced a $50million package to support communities impacted by the mice plague in parts of rural and regional NSW.
The Mouse Control Program will provide grants to help meet the cost of controlling mouse numbers and will be available to farmers, households and small businesses. For more information and how to apply, go to: nsw.gov.au/mice
You can view a recording of the online mouse management workshop for landholders and the community session, presented by Senior Researcher from CSIRO, Steve Henry, on the NSW DPI Biosecurity YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/ZupQwzWyEAk
Here is a downloadable information sheet on staying healthy during a mouse plague: Fact Sheet
The General Manager and I attended the Orana Joint Organisation of Councils Meeting on Wednesday, 12th May in Narromine. The six member Councils of the Joint Organisation (JO) have each individually resolved to resign from the JO. Cost, legislative burden and the lack of tangible benefits for the region have been sighted as the reasons for necessitating this action. As importantly, in the establishment of JO’s by the State Government, our region was fragmented by the establishment of the separate North West Joint Organisation and was further hampered in representing the whole region by Dubbo Regional Council, Coonamble Shire Council and Brewarrina Shire Council choosing not to be JO members.
Invitations will now be issued to the 12 former member Councils of the Orana Regional Organisation of Councils with a view to re-forming that group to represent the region on a voluntary basis without having the costly overheads that are legislated for and required in a JO model.
Councillor Druce and I will present to the “Health outcomes and access to health and hospital services in rural, regional and remote New South Wales Inquiry” on Wednesday, 19th May in Dubbo. We have been grouped with Parkes Shire Council and a General Practitioner from an Ochre Medical Centre in a 45minute session beginning at 10am. The session will be live streamed. The link is http://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/Pages/webcasts.aspx
Mr Rod Sandell on behalf of Warren Rotary, will present to the same Inquiry in Wellington on Tuesday, 18th May. That session will also be live streamed.
I was pleased to attend the opening night of the Warren Chamber Music Festival on Friday night. It was an extraordinary event with musicians and soloists of the highest calibre giving stellar performances.
Also in attendance was The Hon. Ben Franklin, MLC Parliamentary Secretary for Energy and the Arts. His posts on social media underlined what a great event unfolded over the weekend. “Tonight I had the privilege of experiencing some of the most magical and sublime musical performances I have seen for years. And it wasn’t at the Sydney Opera House or the Sydney Recital Hall. The concert was at the Warren Chamber Music Festival. Warren is a small town of around 2,000 people an hour to the west of Dubbo. But this evening it was the stage for a concert of national quality.”
Congratulations to the driving force behind the Festival, Frances Evans and her hard working committee. They can feel justly proud of their efforts in bringing such a magnificent event to fruition in Warren and on Saturday night in Collie.
Warren was alive on Saturday morning with a free concert at the WOW Centre and a large number of young sports people at Victoria Oval participating in junior Rugby League. Senior women’s and men’s Rugby Union followed in the afternoon.
On Friday afternoon prior to the Music Festival, Council’s General Manager, Gary Woodman, Council’s Infrastructure Projects Manager, Kerry Jones and I took the opportunity to acquaint Ben Franklin MLC with some of the projects in Warren that the State Government had either fully or partially funded with grants. These included projects at the Showground/Racecourse, the Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool, the Water Park, the Skate Park, Macquarie Park and the outdoor Netball Courts. We also visited the Library.
On Wednesday Gary Woodman and I will attend the Orana Joint Organisation (JO) of Councils meeting in Narromine. Discussion will centre around the future of the JO and models for a possible voluntary collaborative organisation that doesn’t have the legislative burden that exists with a JO.
Warren Shire Library has become a community hub with a program of activities, events and resources for residents of Warren Shire. From workshops to community outreach, the library has something for everyone.
While having to adapt throughout COVID-19 by providing resources online, the library is now focused on creating a space that offers a range of resources and events to engage the community.
Warren Shire Council General Manager, Gary Woodman, says the library has played such a key role in promoting community connections and pride for Warren Shire.
“From school holiday activities to building a digital archive of Warren Shire history, the library is a cornerstone of the shire that offers fun and interactive ways for residents to engage with learning, literacy and local history,” says Mr Woodman.
A highlight on the library’s calendar is the upcoming National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) event on 19 May. As part of Library Information Week, NSS is designed to promote the value of reading and storytime activities in libraries around the country, and this year will be an intergalactic event. Featuring the book ‘Give Me Some Space!’ by Philip Bunting, the Warren Shire Library will be streaming a live reading by NASA Astronaut Shannon Walker, directly from the International Space Station.
For librarian Pamela Kelly, the NSS event is one of many activities designed to engage the community in reading, literacy and creativity.
“The NSS from space is such an exciting opportunity to bring young readers together and experience the joy of books. Warren preschool and kindergarten will be coming to the library to join the event, which we are promoting with flags placed throughout town, so we hope to have a great turn out on the day,” says Ms Kelly.
Ms Kelly has also developed a program of activities to upskill locals through a series of workshops to cater for children and adults in the shire.
A recent visit from published author and memoir writing teacher, Kim Hodges, gave visitors an opportunity to learn about her work, life and experiences through an interactive session on how to start writing and recording memoirs. Library Technician, Rebecca Moors, and Lianne Clark also held a workshop on researching family and local history through library resources and external sources such as Ancestory.com.
“Our workshops have been such a fantastic way for the community to connect and learn new skills. We have also taken our program of activities on the road to engage our younger locals in reading and creativity by visiting children at Warren Primary School, Little Possums, St Mary’s, Warren School, Vacation Care and through the Pop-up Library for Pre-schoolers,” adds Ms Kelly.
“We aim to reach more people by offering services to encourage reading and learning both at the library and from home. The upcoming launch of Hoopla Digital will provide access to a huge range of videos, music books, audiobooks and graphic novels to download through the North Western Library App and website.”
Building the library’s e-resources has been made possible through the support of the North Western Library member councils who have allocated an additional $3,000 a year from the State Library Priority Grant funding.
To keep up to date on all the happenings at Warren Shire Library visit the library’s Facebook page facebook.com/warrenshirelibrary
Water NSW will be hosting a Community Forum in relation to the Macquarie River Re- Regulating Storage Project (Gin Gin Weir) this Wednesday 5th May. The forum will be held at the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre, Victoria Park in the upstairs Community Room from 5.30pm until 7.30pm. Members of the public are of course invited to attend the forum and to listen first hand to some factual information from Water NSW regarding the project. I will attend along with our General Manager. Those wishing to attend, should RSVP to Water NSW MRRRS@waternsw.com.au
Warren Shire Council has been invited to make an “Appearance for the Inquiry into Health Outcomes and Access to Health and Hospital Services in Rural, Regional and Remote New South Wales” in Dubbo on Wednesday 19th May. Council has previously made a written submission to the Inquiry and now has the opportunity to present the case for improved health services in Warren in person. Councillor Druce and I will avail ourselves of that opportunity. The Warren Health Action Committee will also have the opportunity to address the Inquiry.
I draw your attention to the Warren Chamber Music Festival that will take place with four different concerts occurring over this coming weekend. Artistic Director of the Festival, Frances Evans, is to be applauded for putting together a cultural event with artists of the highest calibre making themselves available to perform in Warren and Collie.
Warren Shire Council meets on the fourth Thursday of every month, with the exception of November, which is replaced with a meeting on the first Thursday of December.
Please find following a selection of highlights from this month’s meeting:
REPORTS OF THE GENERAL MANAGER
Outstanding Reports – Item 1
Road Grants To continue council’s program of infrastructure upgrades, applications have been submitted to Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) Round 2 of the Fixing Local Roads program for funds to upgrade sections of Ellengerah Road, Old Warren Road and Nevertire Bogan Road. $698,771 in funding has been announced under the Australian Government Fixing Local Roads Round 2 for Ellengerah Road, with council contributing a further 25% of funding to the project.
Infrastructure Progress Updates – Item 3
Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool Refurbishment The final stage of this $764,000 infrastructure upgrade project was completed earlier this year, with the installation of backwash waste and rinse pipe works. A full project inspection was undertaken on 29 March to determine an Action Plan for formalising a handover and induction to the Pool Manager.
Warren Airport Upgrades The $2.28M Warren Airport Upgrade is in its final stages, with the upgrade of Runway 03/21 nearly complete including the resurfacing of taxiways and completion of the aircraft refuelling system. While the heavy rainfall in March caused severe damage and delays to the drainage works, the overall upgrade is progressing, with quotations currently underway for construction of a new terminal building.
Warren Levee Rehabilitation Council is seeking funding for this $6M project as soon as practical, with funding applications submitted to the Australian Government’s Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development & Communications. This project is on hold until the necessary funding can be obtained. Council has also consulted with representatives from the Commonwealth Government seeking financial assistance.
Warren, Nevertire & Collie Village enhancements
To enhance and bring more greenery to the shire villages, final rescoping for tree planting in streets and parks across Nevertire and Collie is underway.
Carter Oval Development
Consultation has commenced with the community and user groups to develop a new Draft Masterplan for the Carter Oval Sporting and Recreational Precinct including the Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool. A grant proposal for $400,000 has been submitted to the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program (Round 3) to upgrade the lighting facilities at Carter Oval.
The Skate Park and Water Park are complete, with work now starting on the construction of a cricket field and development of soccer fields. Storage facilities for Little Athletics, cricket and soccer are due to be installed in May.
Warren Showground/Racecourse Upgrade
Work on the Showground/Racecourse is nearing completion, with the Equestrian Arena cover now fully constructed. The heavy rainfall in March caused delays to roof drainage works and led to excess water in the sand base, which is currently being investigated. Council is working closely with representatives from the Adult Riding Club to deliver a successful and quality handover.
Groundwater Augmentation
To deliver sustainable groundwater usage, a $1M augmentation project is currently underway with over 2400m of pipe laid, tank connections installed, and power now supplied to pumps. Manifold connectors have been installed for Bore Flat and Ellengerah and, once approved from the NSW Government’s Department Planning, Industry & Environment (DPIE), installation of chlorination equipment will commence.
Warren Sewerage Treatment Plant Upgrade
Despite March’s heavy rainfall which delayed the project by 2-3 weeks, work is progressing with over half the $6.1M Sewerage Treatment Plant upgrade now complete. A request has been sent to Infrastructure NSW for a contribution towards increased project costs due to a large amount of unsuitable material found on the site.
Grant Applications
A number of grant applications have been submitted to the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program (Round 3):
$1M for Warren Showground/Racecourse Complex Improvement Program;
$1M for Warren Shire Tourism, Business Development and Macquarie Marshes Signage and Shire Mural Program;
$400,000 for the Carter Oval Lighting Project;
$500,000 for the Monkeygar Creek Macquarie Marshes Bird Viewing Platform and Parking Project; and
$900,000 for Bob Christensen Reserve Walkway and Improvement Project.
$90,000 was requested from the NSW ATP Cup Legacy Fund Grant; however, council has been advised only $12,000 of this grant was awarded. Due to the limited funding, the reconstruction of the Nevertire tennis courts may not be able to go ahead.
Murray Darling Association Delegate Appointment – Item 4
Councillor Mark Beach has been appointed as council’s delegate to the Murray Darling Association Inc. Warren Shire Council has been a longstanding member of the Murray Darling Association Inc. and Councillor Beach’s appointment will ensure council’s views are represented for the shire.
REPORTS OF THE DIVISIONAL MANAGER FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
Works Progress Report: Finance & Administration Projects – Item 1
Upgrades to the council office are nearing completion, with a new community room available to hire for half and full day events. The refurbishment includes a new front service area and counter, new staff entry, and flooring and painting of the administration building.
2021/2022 Draft Operational Plan & Estimates – Item 4
Council will advertise the Draft 2021/2022 Operational Plan & Estimates to share council’s projects and priorities for the new financial year. The plan will be open for written public submissions and comment until 3pm on Wednesday, 26 May 2021. Detailed release to follow.
Warren Shire Library Operations – Item 5 Warren Shire Library is continuing to develop new and interesting ways to engage the community from local history workshops and collections, providing more access to e-learning resources, to bringing resources and activities to children through a community outreach program. Detailed release to follow.
REPORT OF THE DIVISIONAL MANAGER ENGINEERING SERVICES
Works Progress Report: Roads – Item 1
Council has a robust plan of road upgrades and maintenance scheduled. Major works include:
The $1.15M bridge and roadworks for Wonbobbie Road, Marthaguy Creek, are complete with line markings due to be applied by the end of June 2021.
The $800,000 rehabilitation of Collie-Trangie Road is in progress, with preliminary analysis works, surveys and designs underway.
The $712,400 Old Warren Road (Segment 22-24) and the $610,400 Nevertire Bogan rural road reconstructions are now in the final stages of having final bitumen seal surfaces applied, with line marking scheduled for May 2021.
Extensive survey work has been carried out around the intersection of Burton and Dubbo Streets as part of the proposed upgrades to improve traffic flow in Warren Town Centre. A report and concept plan will be proposed to a future council meeting.
Funds from the Australian Government’s Drought Communities Program - Extension are being used to upgrade the netball courts including a new irrigation system and turf.
Warren Cemetery Stage 3
Council is developing a Warren Cemetery Masterplan for future lawn growth including upgrades to drainage, extension of the river water main and installation of an onsite sewer management system. A tender has been awarded to Modus Australia to install an access toilet at the cemetery in May.
Nevertire Reservoir Refurbishment
The project plan and tender process has commenced for the refurbishment of the Nevertire Reservoir. The $750,000 infrastructure upgrade will provide structural remediation works and repainting of both the internal and external surfaces to improve the reservoir.
Sewer Gravity Main CCTV
Council is developing a number of programs for sewer maintenance including:
CCTV inspection and smoke testing of all gravity sewer mains in Warren and Nevertire;
Sewer main replacement and relining;
Stormwater infiltration rectification; and
Education for property owners and residents about stormwater infiltration prevention.
State Highway Road Maintenance Council Contract – Item 4
Documentation is being prepared to demonstrate council’s willingness to sign Transport for NSW’s Road Maintenance Council Contracts relevant to the 70km of Oxley Highway located within the shire.
REPORT OF THE MANAGER HEALTH & DEVELOPMENT
Works Progress Report: Health & Development Services - Item 2
Council is committed to supporting projects and grant applications through the Warren Support Services, previously the Community Builders Grant Prevention (EIPP), Service Programs. Between January and March 2021, council has supported the following local Warren Shire projects:
Outback Arts’ Aboriginal Cultural Art, Ceramics and Mentoring;
Warren Youth Support Group’s Basketball and Netball;
Warren Youth Support Group’s Open Day Celebrations;
Warren Central School’s Wellbeing Music; and
Riversmart Canoes.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
MANEX
Warren Shire Council received minutes from council’s most recent Management Executive meeting (MANEX) with key actions including:
ANZAC Day arrangements – Item 4.1.1
Council supported preparations for Sunday’s ANZAC Day commemorations, placing flag poles at the Cenotaph and providing traffic management plans for the ANZAC March. Councillors also attended an ANZAC Day service at Warren Central School on Thursday 22 April.
5-Year Rolling Works Programs – Item 4.3.3
Council will commence developing minimum five-year rolling works programs for critical infrastructure upgrades that will include improvements to a number of key sites such as the aerodrome, the levee, local roads, regional roads and traffic facilities, water reservoirs, sewer mains and stormwater, the cemetery, council houses, the sporting and cultural centre, the Showground/Racecourse complex, and parks and playground equipment.
IPWEA 2021 NSW Local Roads Congress – Item 4.3.8
With the shire’s road network being council’s most major asset, General Manager, Mr Gary Woodman, Councillor Andrew Brewer and Divisional Manager Engineering Services, Mr Rolly Lawford, will attend the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) 2021 NSW Local Roads Congress on 7 June 2021.
Orana Joint Organisation
Mayor, Clr Milton Quigley, attended the Orana Joint Organisation meeting along with council representatives from the Orana region.
Western NSW Dept Health Chief Executive, Scott McLachlan, and Dr Shannon Nott provided an update into the Inquiry into Rural Health noting the challenges with rural health and deficit in attracting and retaining health workers. To assist in overcoming these challenges, Charles Sturt University and Western Sydney University are working on a rural General Practitioner (GP) pipeline through a Joint Medical Program. Council will be advocating for better health support and access to doctors for Warren Shire.
I was pleased, as were many residents, to attend the Warren ANZAC Day Services on Sunday after our Covid interrupted commemorations last year.
The Dawn Service was well attended. We welcomed The Hon. Mark Coulton MP, Minister for Regional Health, Regional Communications and Local Government, Member for Parkes to the service along with his wife Robyn and adviser Cathy Heidrich.
The 11am service was also well attended with Neil Simpson organising our veterans and Master of Ceremonies, Trevor Wilson both doing an excellent job as usual. Councillor Irving attended the Collie service on behalf of Warren Shire Council.
My thanks to all Council staff involved in the organisation of the day. ANZAC Day now requires significant staff resources being on hand before, during and after the event for it to run smoothly. The Parks and Gardens team received a number of compliments on the manner in which Macquarie Park was presented.
Attendance at The Western Division Councils of NSW Annual Conference in Broken Hill last week proved extremely worthwhile. In addition to the meetings foreshadowed in last week’s column the General Manager and I were able to meet with Mr Roy Butler MP, Member for Barwon and Minister Adam Marshall MP, Minister for Western NSW and Minister for Agriculture. In all of our meetings we were able to canvass matters of particular importance to the residents of Warren Shire Council.
Saturday saw the Warren Pumas play a combined Bourke/Brewarrina team in round one of Western Plains Rugby. Perhaps the highlight of the day however, was the inaugural Warren Pumas women’s rugby sevens team taking on the Bourke ewes. Another step forward for women’s sport in Warren!
On Sunday 25 April, we honoured our service men and women with ANZAC Day Services in Warren and Collie.
The Collie ANZAC Day commemoration was a close community service, led by Councillor Irving, and facilitated by Helen Murray, Secretary of the Collie CWA.
In Warren, Minister for Regional Health, Regional Communications and Local Government, and Federal Member for Parkes, The Hon. Mark Coulton MP, along with his wife Robyn joined the many residents who attended the Dawn Service at the Cenotaph, Macquarie Park.
The ANZAC Day March commenced from the Warren Services Club with veterans, representatives from Emergency Services, Warren Central School, St Mary’s School, Warren Preschool, Pony Club and locals all marching to Macquarie Park before taking part in the 11am Commemorative Service.
Warren Shire Council is proud to have supported this special day and thanks to all community volunteers and Council staff who were involved.
The Dawn Service will be held at the Cenotaph, Macquarie Park followed by a free breakfast. The ANZAC Day March commences at 10.55 am.
Sunday, 25 April 2021
Full ANZAC Day Schedule
6.00 am Dawn Service – Cenotaph Macquarie Park
6.30 am Free breakfast for children and adults at the Warren Services Club
(Provided by Warren Services Club)
10.00 am March Participants to be in front of the Warren Services Club for Covid registrations
10.50 am Form up for March – Dubbo Street near the Warren Services Club
10.55 am March commences
11.00 am Commemorative Service – Cenotaph Macquarie Park
12 noon Free sausage sizzle lunch – Macquarie Park
(provided by Warren Services Club)
The ANZAC Day March and Service are being held in line with Covid Restrictions. Anyone participating in the March and Service is required to register their details.
Please stay home if you feel unwell or have any flu-like symptoms such as a fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, loss of smell, or loss of taste.
Our latest edition of Council News is now available.
From the Mayor's Desk - April Council News
2021 has already seen a busy start to the year for Warren Shire. As we continue to navigate through extreme weather – from drought to flooding in one short year – I am extremely proud of how our community have continued to come together and adapt in these ever-changing times.
It was wonderful to see people enjoying activities as part of our WET and WACKY in WARREN series throughout summer and joining our Australia Day celebrations at the new water park, which officially opened in February.
In March we celebrated International Women’s Day and it was fantastic to see Warren Shire local Grace Brennan be named NSW 2021 Regional Woman of the Year for her work supporting regional communities with #buyfromthebush
Like many regional communities, access to health services continues to remain an important focus in our region. I recently attended a presentation from CEO of the Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD), Scott McLachlan. It was heartening to hear that WNSWLHD are working and planning for greater access to GPs for regional communities.
Here at council, we have welcomed our new General Manager, Mr Gary Woodman, to the Warren community. Gary brings a wealth of experience and is a familiar face having previously worked at Warren Shire Council.
Work is continuing with the upgrade of the reception area in the main Council building.
The refurbished entry incorporates a new Service NSW counter with continuing Motor Registry capability. Residents seeking help with Council matters will be served at a similar new counter immediately alongside that of Service NSW. Additionally, part of the area on the right of the entry will be repurposed as a office style meeting and enquiry room where residents can meet with Council staff.
On Saturday, Councillor Beach and I met at Burrima with a delegation from Greater Shepparton City Council along with their Local State Member in the Victorian Parliament. Our visitors are part of Region 2 of the Murray Darling Association and were keen to view the recently completed walkway showcasing the Macquarie Marshes. They also sought some factual information regarding water in the Macquarie Valley and the contribution the Macquarie River makes to the Barwon Darling system and subsequently to the whole Murray Darling Basin. It was explained that the Macquarie River is effectively a closed system with little connectivity to the Murray Darling system except during a flood.
As this is published the General Manager, Gary Woodman and I are in Broken Hill for the Western Division Councils Conference. Aside from the Conference agenda we have meetings organised with our Federal Member, Mark Coulton, the State Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women, Bronnie Taylor and the State Minister for Water, Property and Housing, Melinda Pavey.
Councillors have accepted an invitation from Warren Central School to attend their school’s ANZAC Ceremony. The visit to the school will take place during our regular Council Meeting on Thursday.
Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton, has advised he will attend the ANZAC Dawn Service in Warren before attending the 11 am Service in Dubbo.
In last week’s article the Natural Resource Access Regulator was inadvertently named the National Resource Access Regulator. NRAR has responsibility for enforcing already enacted legislation and not for framing legislation.
Essential Energy’s Community Choices program is open again, allowing people across rural, regional and remote NSW and parts of Southern Queensland to vote for grassroots causes that can do with some extra support.\n\n
A total of $175,000 will be shared by eligible groups across 20 zones, with funding of up to $2,500 per successful group.\n
Eligible charities, registered not-for-profit groups and community groups can nominate themselves, or be\nnominated, from 12 April 2021. Full details are at essentialenergy.com.au/choices\n
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How much money each nominated organisation receives is determined by how many community votes they receive via the online voting platform. The entire process can be completed online – from nominating to the community voting, which makes it an easily shareable and COVID-safe way to raise funds.\n
This year, Essential Energy has introduced an additional Small Communities category. Local groups within our footprint who are in towns with populations of less than 20,000 people can nominate for this additional category, boosting their opportunities for funding if they are relying on a smaller voting base than groups located in large communities.\n
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Last year, more than 120 organisations shared in the total funding, which was used for everything from local Dragon Boat Clubs to Equestrian groups supporting kids and community outreach programs like Meals on Wheels and Legacy.\n
The program is a great way for communities to have direct input into who they would like to support with funding in their local areas.\n
Sunday saw a very successful Open Garden Day take place as a fund raiser for the Warren Museum and Gallery Association. The quality of the gardens on display was exceptional. Our many visitors were suitably impressed, noting how much work had been done by owners to achieve gardens of such a high standard. Congratulations to the eight families, in addition to the WOW Centre, who opened their gardens.
Congratulations particularly to Dr John Burke, Chairman of the Association and his significant cohort of volunteers who made the event such a success and such a community event that engendered widespread support.
The General Manager and I will meet this week with Professor Richard Bush, NSW Crown Land Commissioner and his Project Engagement Officer, Dr Brendan Logan. The Commissioner has been provided with an issues briefing paper foreshadowing matters of importance to both landowners and Council. High on the agenda is the difficulty some landowners are having in relation to the purchase of small parcels of crown land on which there is infrastructure in order to comply with the National Resources Access Regulator’s Flood Plain Harvesting legislation.
Warren Shire Council is pleased to report the new Sewerage Treatment Works is progressing with over half the construction complete. The $6.1million investment is a significant development and part of a number of infrastructure upgrades designed to benefit the Warren Shire community.
Council engaged Gongues Construction through a tender process to lead the project, with local earthmovers and trade businesses to support construction, which includes a new Sewerage Pump Station, and the demolition of the old Sewerage Treatment Plant and refurbishment of the old site.
Designed by the NSW Government Public Works Advisory (PWA) the new works has an increased capacity of inflow and improved Peak Wet Weather Flow to allow for any stormwater infiltration into the sewerage network during heavy rainfall. The system also includes a designed overflow in the process to manage treated effluent levels and prevent damage to the treatment works in extreme wet weather.
The new site is scheduled to be complete by August 2021.
Last Thursday saw Council hold its monthly meeting. Council welcomed Gary Woodman to his first meeting in his capacity as General Manager, Warren Shire Council.
The significant amount of local rainfall has meant that all unsealed roads within the Shire remain closed to vehicular traffic. Additionally, some sealed roads have water over them and we have some instances of road closures due to localised flooding particularly along the Marthaguy Creek. Council provides daily roads updates for the information of the travelling public. Council has submitted an application for a Natural Disaster Declaration to Resilience NSW for the affected areas of flooding and damage in Warren Shire.
Warren Shire Council is renewing the Alcohol Free Zone within the Warren Town Levee. Notices were published in this newspaper and letters sent to the NSW Police, the Chamber of Commerce, Macquarie Aboriginal Land Council and licensed premises inviting representations, submissions or objections. None were received.
Sunday saw the twelfth Warren Community Triathlon take place after a Covid enforced lay off last year. A number of positive comments were made by both competitors and visitors regarding the enhanced facilities and appearance of the Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool. Council was able to support the event particularly in regard to presenting the pool at its best and with the placement of obligatory signage notifying motorists of the presence of cyclists.
The widespread rain last week was certainly welcomed by most people. The last twelve months have certainly seen a dramatic turnaround in climatic conditions. As I write this, (Sunday), it is raining again and with the ongoing wet conditions Council has closed all of its unsealed roads.
The mouse infestation is causing significant concern to residents, business owners and farmers. As the infestation continues so does the financial cost of mouse eradication. To this end I have written to our State Member, Roy Butler and Barwon duty MLC, Sam Farraway seeking some form of financial assistance in combating the mouse problem. I await their response.
Warren Shire Council will hold its full monthly meeting in the Community Room on Thursday.
The first in a series of public art sculptures across the Warren Shire has been revealed, and this functional art piece has already been put to the test by both locals and visitors.
Created by local artist Damian Plunkett, the table tennis sculpture marks the beginning of a cultural series that has seen local residents upskill via local workshops to create distinctive pieces to showcase across the shire.
Funded through a Drought Communities Program Round 2 grant and earmarked under the Pathways Structures program, council has allocated close to $30,000 for the development of this series, which is providing employment and upskilling opportunities within the local community.
Warren and District Arts Council President, Jenny Quigley, is proud of how locals are finding new skills and passion through art.
“The sculpture series has been a unique approach to providing support to our community through tough economic times by giving people new skills to celebrate Warren through art,” says Mrs Quigley.
“Damian’s clever table tennis sculpture recognises the popularity of table tennis at Warren Central School and provides a functional piece that encourages interaction and recreational activity.”
For Damian, he discovered a newfound skill and was the first time he had created anything like a table tennis table.
“This is totally different for me. It was one of those things that just comes along so I put my hand up to give it go,” says Mr Plunkett.
“Creating a sculpture that is both functional and has meaning for the community has been really great. Given I had no experience before this, I’m really happy with how it’s turned out.”
The table tennis sculpture is just the beginning of a series of marvellous creations to be revealed across Warren Shire in the coming weeks.
“We have other local residents currently creating sculptures that will soon be revealed along many walkways and other popular community gathering places around Warren,” adds Mrs Quigley.
“In addition to providing new skills for their creators, these are set to become a destination point for both locals and visitors to our community.”
Visit the table tennis sculpture in the Victoria Park Precinct, located behind Victoria Oval and placed adjacent to the outdoor fitness equipment and tennis courts.
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Media Enquiries:
Jenny Quigley President, Warren and District Arts Council
Last Friday Stephen Glen completed his appointment as Interim General Manager at Warren Shire Council. I believe that Stephen, with his experience in larger council settings, has been able to contribute much to the betterment of our Council and was the perfect link between our past and newly appointed General Managers. I wish him well and look forward to welcoming both he and his family back to Warren as visitors in the future.
Gary Woodman began as our General Manager on Monday. Many in the community will know Gary from his time in Warren as Manager of Engineering Services from 1994 until 2002. Gary, in Local Government terms, was most recently General Manager at Cobar Shire Council from 2010 until 2016. Since that time he has acted as an Consultant Engineer. I welcome him and his wife Vanja to Warren.
Construction of our new Sewerage Treatment Works is currently about 65% complete in total with local contractors having all but completed the earthworks stage. The new works were designed by the NSW Government Public Works Advisory (PWA) with all approvals necessary from other government agencies including the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) sought and gained by PWA. Some concern has been expressed regarding overflows. These are unfounded. The new Sewerage Treatment Works are much less likely to be affected by overflows in the event of floods or extreme rain events than our present plant given the new plants better design, greater capacity and higher pond banks.
A fuller article is proposed outlining the development and operation of the Works in the near future.
The Warren Community Triathlon makes a return on Sunday 28th March after a Covid enforced recess last year.
Warren Shire local Grace Brennan has won NSW Regional Woman of the Year in the 2021 NSW Women of the Year Awards for her role in encouraging all Australians to #buyfromthebush.
Announced today, the awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding contribution women make across all NSW regional and rural communities.
Ms Brennan started #buyfromthebush in 2019 as a social media campaign to support rural businesses and communities facing drought. The campaign gained more than a quarter of a million followers on Instagram and saw a $5 million revenue uplift for rural businesses, most of which are women-led.
Mayor of Warren, Councillor Milton Quigley, says being named NSW Regional Woman of the Year is recognition of the impact Ms Brennan has made on so many communities affected by extreme weather events and economic downturn.
“Grace has made such a significant contribution to rural communities through uniting city and country with #buyfromthebush. By calling on people in the city to invest in bush-based businesses, Grace’s initiative has revitalised many rural communities and supports their survival into the future,” says Mayor Quigley.
“Warren Shire Council and our local community congratulates Grace on winning NSW Regional Woman of the Year and on behalf of many rural communities like ours, we are grateful for the valuable support #buyfromthebush provides.”
“And to all of the incredible women living and working in the Warren Shire, I take this opportunity to thank you for the invaluable contributions you make to enrich, enhance and advance the fabric of our lives here in Warren.”
Last Friday Stephen Glen, Interim General Manager and I, attended a Country Mayor’s Meeting in Sydney.
The two issues occupying the minds of my fellow Mayors were Health and a potential significant increase in the NSW Emergency Service Levies.
In the case of the NSW Emergency Service Levies, this could see Warren Shire Council’s contribution rise from $125,113.36 in 2018-19 to something in the order of $220,000.00 for 2021-22. This contribution comes directly from ratepayers in the rates that are paid to Council and goes directly to the State Government. An increase of the size anticipated has a real budgetary impact on services that Council can then provide from rate income. There is a view that a proposed Emergency Services Levy as suggested two years ago be re evaluated so that funding for the provision all emergency services is spread more equitably across all communities in NSW.
At the same meeting a presentation from Brad Hazzard, NSW Minister for Health, was well received. There seems little doubt that in a Federal sense, NSW has the best systems in place to both manage Covid 19 infections and at the same time minimise the economic fallout that occurs with the outbreak of clusters of the virus. Unfortunately there was little time available to pursue more general rural health matters except to say that the minister and his staffer were keen to listen to our concerns regarding on the ground issues. Further, I believe the Minister is one who checks that his department follows up on matters that are brought to his attention. We look forward to seeing what comes out of the Upper House Inquiry into Rural Health.
Stephen Glen completes his appointment as Interim General Manager with Warren Shire Council on Friday. From his arrival at the end of October 2020, Stephen has been generous in utilising the skill, experience and wisdom he has gained over many years with larger Council’s and at the highest levels of Local Government, in bettering Warren Shire Council in particular and more broadly, our community. I hope Stephen has enjoyed his time here and will look back fondly on his time in Warren, Nevertire, Collie and surrounds having gained a deeper understanding of rural life.
Gary Woodman begins his appointment as General Manager, Warren Shire Council on Monday 15th March. We look forward to welcoming Gary back to Warren having previously been our Manager of Engineering in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s.
Warren Shire Council meets on the fourth Thursday of every month, with the exception of November, which is replaced with a meeting on the first Thursday of December.
Please find following a selection of highlights from council's February meeting:
AIRPORT OPERATIONS COMMITTEE MINUTES
Warren Shire Council has received the following information via the Airport Operations Committee Minutes (held Tuesday 9 February 2021):
ITEM 3.2 FUEL POD USAGE TO DATE
Approximately 3,000 litres of fuel has been sold to date from the Warren Aerodrome. Word is spreading about this resource among the aviation community, with plans for further advertising to occur.
Discussions also took place regarding a How to Use Guide to be available at the Fuel Pod, particularly for the Fuelcharge App for mobile phones.
ITEM 3.3 AIRPORT UPGRADE PROGRESS AND STATUS
Runway 03/ 21 has been the focus of works under the NSW Government’s Drought Critical Infrastructure Fund including reforming, resurfacing, realigning, and correction of drainage and rainwater runoff. All taxiways and aircraft aprons will also be repaired and resurfaced.
Demolition work will commence this month on the existing terminal building, with the steel frame for the new building arriving and in storage.
ITEM 3.4 MVAS – PURCHASE OF AIRPORT LAND, DA, SURVEY ETC. FOR EXISTING WASTE/ WASHDOWN WATER DAM.
Council has received a letter from the owner of Macquarie Valley Agricultural Services, (MVAS) seeking to purchase the land where the MVAS Waste/Washdown Water dam is located. MVAS will cover all costs including the survey, DA, subdivision, legal and purchase from council. Preliminary discussions indicate there is nothing preventing this subdivision and sale progressing, once all prerequisites are met.
TRAFFIC COMMITTEE MINUTES
Warren Shire Council has received the following information via the Traffic Committee Minutes (held Thursday 18 February 2021):
ITEM 4.1 SPEED ZONE CHANGES CARINDA ROAD
A submission is being made to Transport for NSW (TfNSW) requesting a new speed limit be established on Carinda Road (Regional Road No.333) approaching the Industrial Access Road Intersection.It is proposed this would comprise of the following:
00m to 500m – 60km per hour Sign
500m to 1000m – 60km Ahead Signage
Beyond 1000m 100km per hour
A number of double-sided reminder signs indicating current speeds will be established on Dubbo Street, between the Railway Parade and the Industrial Access Road Intersection.
ITEM 4.2 TRAFFIC FLOW CHANGES - INCLUDING ESTABLISHMENT OF A HEAVY VEHICLE BYPASS
The proposal to establish the Warren Heavy Vehicle Bypass, utilising the Industrial Access Road, will be advertised with the aim of seeking user and community comments.
In addition, Stafford Street between Dubbo Street and the north eastern side of Zora Street, will be signposted as not being available for usage by large vehicles (B-Doubles, B-Triples, Road Trains), due to the high parking demand associated with the Warren War Memorial Pool and the recently opened Splash Park, in this part of Stafford Street.
A proposal will be submitted to TfNSW to assist with the signpost changes that will be required when the Warren Heavy Vehicle Bypass is being implemented.
Council will consult with all local businesses in Stafford Street and Zora Street in relation to the changes for heavy vehicles to enter and exit Zora Street from the Oxley Highway.
REPORT OF THE GENERAL MANAGER
ITEM 3 VARIATION TO CONTRACT FOR NEW SEWERAGE TREATMENT WORKS BACKGROUND
Warren Shire Council will be meeting with the contractor constructing the new Warren Sewerage Treatment Works, Gongues Construction Pty Ltd, to determine whether savings in the project could assist in covering the cost in removing 40,000 m3 of unsuitable material from the bases of the Oxidation and Evaporation ponds that are being constructed.
The unsuitable material needed to be removed to a solid base that would satisfy the design parameters of the ponds.
Report of the Divisional Manager of Finance and Administration
ITEM 3 SALE OF DWELLING AT 39 GARDEN AVENUE WARREN NSW 2824
Warren Shire Council will be listing the sale of the dwelling at 39 Garden Avenue Warren with all local Real Estate Agents. Council also granted authority to the Mayor and General Manager to negotiate with prospective purchasers for settlement of the sale.
This follows a resolution of council in April 2018 to sell 56 Garden Avenue Warren to fund the construction of two new dwellings on Lots 52 and 58 in Gunningba Estate, however after an inspection on the dwelling at 39 Garden Avenue, it is considered more practical to sell this dwelling instead, due to the level of maintenance and repairs required.
Report of the Divisional Manager Engineering Services
ITEM 1 TENDER – SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF BITUMEN EMULSION
Downer EDI Works Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract as the Single Source supplier to Warren Shire Council for the Supply and Delivery of Bitumen Emulsion for the period 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2022.
A provision will be allowed for a 12-month extension to this contract, based on satisfactory supplier performance, which would take this contract through to 31 December 2023. This tender was conducted by Regional Procurement.
NOTICE OF MOTION
ITEM 1 MOBILE AND INTERNET COVERAGE IN NEVERTIRE
Warren Shire Council has endorsed a Notice of Motion from Councillor Pauline Serdity that council lobby the NSW and Federal Governments to include the Nevertire region in the “Black Spot” funding program as a top priority and as a matter of urgency, to increase the coverage area for mobiles and internet.
Those of you who have visited the Showground / Racecourse recently will have noticed work on the early stages of the replacement of the Ron McCalman Pavilion. This project is being undertaken entirely by the P and A Association and has no Council involvement beyond the normal regulatory requirements associated with a new building. The P and A Association were successful in obtaining a grant with which they chose to build an enhanced facility with a small office and kitchenette. Council’s only stipulation is that the building and associated works be completed well before the Warren Show and that the building continues to be known as the Ron McCalman Pavilion.
Elsewhere at the Showground / Racecourse work continues on the sand surface under the 80 metre by 42 metre covered Equestrian Arena.This work is being carried out by Warren Shire Council.
The Far West Academy of Sport made use of our facilities again last weekend with Rugby League programs for both boys and girls.
On Friday, the Interim General Manager, Stephen Glen and I will travel to Sydney for a meeting of the Country Mayors. It promises to be an informative meeting with an address from Brad Hazzard, the Minister for Health. It will be interesting to note what reference he makes to the Upper House Inquiry into Rural Health. Council has made a submission to that Inquiry on the community’s behalf.
At the meeting of the Orana Joint Organisation of Councils, which I attended last Wednesday, in a presentation from the CEO of the Western NSW Local Health District, Scott McLaughlin, there was a recognition that the core of any health service in towns our size was the provision of GP services. The WNSWLHD are working and planning to this end. It was heartening that the Health District’s plans align with our community expectations. The point was made however that only 10 per cent of health outcomes are influenced by the direct provision of healthcare services. Behavioural and lifestyle factors, genetics and social and environmental factors contribute 90 per cent to the degree of health we experience at a personal level. Resultantly there is much to be said for adopting a healthy lifestyle.
The Splash Park has re-opened this morning (20 February 2021). Come along and have a splash around.
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"Description": "Warren Shire Council and the Shire community has celebrated the official opening of the $608,000 Warren Water Park on Wednesday 10 February.
Warren’s newest recreational asset was funded under Round 3 of the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund and was officially opened by the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women, The Hon. Bronnie Taylor MLC, and the Duty MLC for Barwon, The Hon. Sam Farraway MLC, during a visit to the region.
Mayor of Warren, Councillor Milton Quigley, says he is pleased the Water Park could be officially opened during this visit, and is grateful to the NSW Government for providing the funding for community and recreational assets such as this.
“On behalf of Warren Shire Council and the Warren community, I welcome the visit of Minister Taylor and Mr Farraway MLC to our Shire,” says Mayor Quigley.
“We are very appreciative of the funding provided by both the state and federal governments to enable the development of major regional infrastructure, sporting and recreational facilities that enhance the quality of life for all members of our community.”
During their visit to the Shire, Minister Taylor and Mr Farraway MLC toured a number of other infrastructure assets and community facilities including the Warren Youth Centre and Community Hub, the Victoria Oval Netball Courts, Warren Skate Park and the Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool.
They also met with Warren’s Health Action Committee to discuss ways to coordinate, improve and develop health services in the district, the promotion of health education, and the establishment of a Dementia Specific Unit in Warren.
To complete the visit, the NSW Nationals members hosted a community BBQ at the Nevertire Pub, giving around 60 local residents the opportunity to discuss all of the exciting things happening in Warren with the Minister and Duty MLC.
Residents of Warren Shire are invited to a community BBQ being held at the Nevertire next Wednesday 10 February from 6.30pm.
Hosted by the Hon Bronnie Taylor MLC and the Hon Sam Farraway MLC from the NSW Nationals, it's your chance to chat about the exciting things happening in our community.
Warren Shire Council has appointed experienced local government leader and Engineering and Management Consultant, Mr Gary Woodman, as its new General Manager.
With an impressive track record comprising more than 34 years of local government experience across areas including Central Darling, Cobar, Singleton and Narrabri Shire Councils, Mr Woodman is no stranger to the Warren Shire, having previously worked for 8.5 years as its Manager Engineering Services (1994-2002).
Mayor of Warren, Councillor Milton Quigley, says Mr Woodman’s first-hand knowledge of the Warren community and his notable achievements across many rural and regional local government areas made him an excellent candidate for the role.
“Mr Woodman has a thorough understanding of the local government sector and particularly the activities and challenges encountered in a community such ours,” Mayor Quigley said.
“As the General Manager of Cobar Shire Council (2010-2016), Director Operations at Singleton Council (2002-2010), and during his time here at Warren Shire Council, Mr Woodman directed the successful construction of many major infrastructure projects, won several major awards including the 2002 Institute Public Works Engineering Australasia Award for the $7.6M Warren Town Levee Upgrade Project, and was made a fellow of the Institute Public Works Engineering Australasia.
“Mr Woodman is extremely well regarded and respected across all of his previous roles, including his work here in the Warren Shire, and we welcome his effective leadership in order to advance our Shire and foster its growth and prosperity in the coming years.”
Mr Woodman says he is very much looking forward to returning to Warren Shire in a leadership capacity and is focused on delivering services and projects with broad community and regional benefits.
“I am aware much has changed since my previous work here, and my wife, Vanja, and I are eagerly anticipating becoming active members of the community,” Mr Woodman said.
“I am looking to build on the good work undertaken by previous councils and former leadership teams, to deliver world-class infrastructure assets and robust community services that will establish Warren as a renowned rural town and Shire throughout all of NSW and beyond.
Mayor Quigley also thanked Mr Stephen Glen, who has been acting in the General Manager’s role since November and will continue to lead Warren Shire Council until Mr Woodman’s official appointment commences on 15 March 2021.
As 2020 draws to a close we can reflect in the broadest sense on a tumultuous year.
The start of the year saw dust and drought dominating our thoughts. Rain came and the winter crops for many yielded the best results in years. Likewise, our graziers were able to cease feeding livestock. This has been overlaid since March by Covid 19 and all of the implications of the changes that this has necessitated to halt the spread of the disease.
Against this backdrop Council has continued to deliver a significant number of projects beginning with the opening of the much anticipated skate park in February, one of the best skate parks in NSW. The continuing redevelopment of the Carter Oval precinct into a family focused recreational area, an eventual reopening of the refurbished Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool, continuing redevelopment and upgrades to the airport including an aircraft refueling station, facility enhancements for all of the nine organisations that make use of the Showground Racecourse including the impressive eighty metre by forty metre covered equestrian arena and enhancements to the villages of Nevertire and Collie are some of the projects that if not complete, are virtually complete.
The Wonbobbie Bridge across the Marthaguy Creek has recently been completed. The new Council building is nearing completion externally with internal refurbishment of the original building to occur in the first quarter of 2021 to complete the project. The cross linking of our two bore sites at Bore Flat and on the Ellengerah Rd has given us the ability to maintain firefighting ability at low river water levels.
The longer than two kilometre section of the Old Warren Road that I spoke of last week as having been reconstructed received a primary seal last Tuesday.
Work will begin shortly reconstructing and widening two kilometres of the Nevertire-Bogan Road from two kilometres south of Nevertire.
Maintenance work is continuing on all of our local roads.
Repair work on the Oxley Highway however and consequently at our roundabout is the responsibility of Transport for NSW. Warren Shire Council continues to seek the repairs to the roundabout by Transport for NSW to get the works completed as soon as possible.
The post storm clean-up continues in Nevertire.
Quite a number of new projects will be undertaken in the New Year and with the return of this newspaper in late January I will take the opportunity to then outline those.
I wish you all a safe and Merry Christmas being mindful of the threat that Covid 19 continues to pose to our community.
Congratulations to Deacon Drive, you are our Santa Street for Christmas 2020!
Special mentions to Frawley Street and Pittman Parade (particularly 10 Pittman Parade with your dancing Santa). Honourable mentions also go to the Marks family on Gunnegaldra Road, and the Weston family on Marthaguy Road.
Thank you Warren for showing your Christmas spirit and lighting up our community.
This week presents an opportunity to provide a rural roads update.
A significant amount of work has been undertaken recently in upgrading and maintaining our local rural roads and further work will be undertaken during the remainder of 2020/21 budget year.
The planned capital works on rural roads for the 2020/21 financial year include the following roads and locations:
Construction Ellengerah Road - between 20km and 22km east of the Warren Levee bank crossing in Dubbo Street.
Wonbobbie Road – from the Oxley Highway north approximately 400m.
Old Warren Road, 23.25km from the intersection of the Industrial Access Road and the Old Warren Road to the end of existing bitumen approximately 4 kms past Eenaweena.
Tyrie Road - This 2.20km section of road is from its intersection with the Cathundral Bogan Road to its intersection with the Tottenham Road.
Rehabilitation Collie-Trangie Road – 6km to 8km south of Collie.
Warren Road - A 4km section of the Warren Road located between 12km and 16km north of the intersection of the Marthaguy and Warren Road.
Gravel Resheeting The 2020/21 Council Gravel Resheeting Program of works have been completed. The two sections of roads affected by these works included:
Old Warren Road between 28km and 30km from the intersection of the Industrial Access Road and the Old Warren Road
Canonba Road a total distance of 2.55km from the boundary with the Bogan Shire towards the Canonba and Carinda Road Intersection
Over the last week or so there have been a number of incidents involving tampering with irrigation systems around town. Our irrigation systems are installed in an effort to ensure the parks and gardens are maintained to a high standard.
Tampering with the system, however well meaning, can cause problems that may take a large effort to restore.
Please do not adjust any irrigation systems. If you believe the system is not working correctly, please contact the Council on 6847 6600.
With what I hope has been an enormously successful harvest for all drawing to a close Council is mindful of the poorer condition of a number of our local and regional roads that has been the result of a significant increase in heavy vehicle movements. Roads will continue to be assessed and repairs undertaken in a timely manner. Council is acutely aware of the poor condition of the Carinda Road (Regional Road 333) in the vicinity of Raby. Please notify Council of any other areas of our road network that require urgent repair.
It was enormously pleasing to see the Warren Swimming Pool open to the public again as of midday on Sunday. This has been a frustrating project in terms of timeframes and the “unknown unknowns” that invariably occur and cause delays when dealing with sixty year old infrastructure. You just don’t know what you are going to find until you start. That our contractors for the internal resurfacing of the pool were Queensland based and were delayed in entering NSW as a result of Covid border restrictions certainly didn’t help. Nonetheless it is a wonderful facility now with an impressive array of shade sails that I hope all residents will enjoy.
A belated congratulations to Grace Brennan, a finalist in the NSW Division of The Australian of the Year, recognising her innovative “Buy from the Bush” campaign that benefited so many small rural businesses. The NSW Division was won by Shane Fitzsimmons, Rural Fire Service Commissioner, who oversaw the bushfire response in late 2019 and early 2020.
This week sees the completion of Glenn Wilcox’s tenure as General Manager at Warren Shire Council.
Glenn has worked tirelessly in improving Warren Shire Council for the betterment of our whole community. He came into a Council with a good stable base three and a half years ago and has sought to elevate the organisation’s ability to provide services to our residents and to provide the infrastructure they deserve.
Glenn has introduced a greater degree of rigor into Council’s decision making, particularly in the area of policy and procedure where we were not as well placed as we might have been.
Glenn’s standout contributions have been in the areas of forward planning and the development of infrastructure. Most areas of Council’s operations now have ten year plans making it relatively easy to have projects shovel ready and eligible for grants should they become available.
The last two years have seen projects with a value in excess of $20 million instigated and in many cases completed in our Shire. A detailed list appears elsewhere in this newspaper, but suffice to say that Glenn has played no small part in these achievements. The redevelopment of Macquarie Park, the walkway to Victoria Oval and Calara House along the riverbank, the four bay storage shed, emergency generator and two high quality outdoor netball courts and half basketball court at the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre, one of the best skate parks in NSW, continuing redevelopment of the Carter Oval precinct into a family focused recreational area, continuing redevelopment and upgrades to the airport including an aircraft refueling station, facility enhancements for all of the nine organisations that make use of the Showground Racecourse and enhancements to Nevertire and Collie are some of the projects that spring easily to mind.
Many more projects are planned and many will be completed in the coming months including a number of rural road projects, the Wonbobbie Bridge across the Marthaguy Creek, the new Council building and the cross linking of our two bore sites at Bore Flat and on the Ellengerah Road.
All of these make the Warren Shire Local Government Area a better place in which to live, work and raise a family.
For all of this, I and my fellow Councillors owe Glenn a significant degree of gratitude.
The recruitment process for a new General Manager is continuing.
Many will be aware that Council held its October monthly meeting in the new Council Chambers. An official opening will be held after the new building is complete and the present building refurbished.
A draft Warren Swimming Pool Master Plan has been advertised and public comment is sought. Copies are available at the front office and online.
Vehicles travelling along Industrial Access Road have right of way. Vehicles travelling along Carinda Road and Dubbo Street MUST GIVE WAY. Speed limit at this intersection is 60km/h, please slow down on approach.
There are significant changes coming which will result in vehicles travelling on the Industrial Access Road having the right of way. Vehicles travelling Carinda Road and Dubbo Street will need to Give Way.
This is a major change for regular road users.
Council is urging residents to proceed with caution over the coming weeks while these changes are being implemented. It is acknowledged that the changes could easily be ignored resulting in a motor vehicle accident. To aid these changes, Council has intensified on-site advertising using various forms of media and hard-faced signage which will be in place from now until after the changes have taken place.
The official change over date is Monday 24th August, 2020.
Residents and road users will also notice the installation of the new thermo plastic rumble strips, which have been established on the Carinda Road and Dubbo Street legs of the intersection. At this stage, the rumble strips on the Industrial Access Road approaches will also remain.
There will also be speed limit signage advertising that the 60km speed limits will remain enforced in all four directions to assist with the changes that are being implemented.
The variable notice boards will remain onsite for a period of time, and traffic lights flashing amber will also be installed on all approaches to help alert all road users that there are traffic changes ahead and to proceed with caution.
There are four issues that I need to update you on this week.
Council has chosen not to take up a contract with Transport for NSW as the lead contractor for construction and maintenance of the Oxley Highway between Collie and Nevertire. The recently changed nature of the contract means that Council would expose itself to significant financial risk if it were to sign the contract as lead contractor. Council will, however, act as a subcontractor, on a needs basis to Gilgandra Shire Council who have assumed all risk for this section of the Highway.
As an aside, many will be aware of signs indicating work needing to be done on the Ewenmar Bridge north of town. This is of course part of the Oxley Highway and is not under the control of Council. The necessary repairs will be undertaken by the Transport for NSW bridge crew.
The second issue is an important road safety message to those using the Carinda Road / Industrial Access Road intersection. At present vehicles travelling along Dubbo Street and the Carinda Road have right of way at this intersection, with those on the Industrial Access Road having to give way at “Give Way” signs. This will be reversed so that heavy vehicles will have right of way and the “Give Way” signs are on the Carinda Road / Dubbo Street sides of the intersection. This is being done in the interests of improved road safety. An extensive advertising campaign will take place prior to the signage being reversed.
Thirdly, Council and its Town Improvement Committee are both aware of the less than ideal condition of the road surface in the CBD section of Dubbo Street. Upgrade works will be undertaken as funds become available.
Finally, our General Manager, Glenn Wilcox indicated at our July Council meeting that he will complete his contract with Warren Shire Council on 30th October. The recruitment process for a new General Manager has begun.
Council was very pleased to be informed by Mark Coulton, Member for Parkes, on Friday that it was to receive $655,258 as part of the Federal Government’s Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program.
The new program is based on the successful Roads to Recovery Program and will enable local councils to deliver priority projects with a focus on upgrades and maintenance to local roads and community infrastructure.
Council will consider how these funds will be allocated after more detail comes to hand as to what eligibility criteria apply to projects.
In relation to COVID-19 restrictions, many will be aware that in line with Government guidelines Council has reopened the Skate Park, Macquarie Park and the outdoor gym equipment at Victoria Oval. Council will sanitise the equipment once a day, but users are reminded of the need to sanitise any equipment before and after use themselves. We all need to continue to be vigilant.
Council will reopen its Administration Building on Monday 1st June following the installation of sneeze guards. Access will be via the rear of the building from Thornton Ave. This then allows time for the newly poured concrete front access ramp and steps to cure completely.
Council has also decided to extend the due date for the payment of the latest rates instalment by one week until Friday 5th June given that the Council Office has not been open to the public and that there is a continuing need to maintain coronavirus procedures with limited numbers of people accessing the Office at one time.
Council has enthusiastically received news that through the State Government’s Stronger Communities Fund we will receive $608,000 for the construction of a Water Park in the Carter Oval Sporting and Recreational Precinct. The announcement, made by Nationals MLC, Sam Farraway, means that another section of the master planned area can be completed without reliance on any ratepayer funding.
In further news at Carter Oval, Council anticipates that shade sails will be installed over the Skate Park within the next couple of months. Patchwork grass has also recently been laid in order to begin the landscaping of the area. This is again grant funded.
In relation to COVID-19 restrictions, Council will begin lifting restrictions in line with Government announcements. There will, however, be a responsibility on all of us to continue to do the right thing in terms of social distancing and using sanitiser. The last thing we need is an outbreak of COVOD-19 in our Local Government area. Council has opened the showground racecourse for equestrian use, will open the Outdoor Gym this week and Macquarie Park playground. The Council Office will remain closed whilst sneeze guards are installed and the new ramp and stairs are completed.
Council’s four grader crews continue to repair roads all around the Shire. Please don’t hesitate to contact Council’s Engineering Department in the case of there being a section of road that needs attention.
Council last week began rejuvenation work on the Council Building. A new ramp is being constructed to comply with present disability access guidelines , as well as steps at the front entrance and a new awning. This work will take three to four weeks to complete. Simultaneously, work will begin on a new Council Chambers Building that will also allow disabled access to Council Meetings. This is not possible at present.
The space will also be available for meetings. New office space will also be provided at the rear of the building. The floor plan remains the same as that advertised over the last twelve months. The project will be funded from reserves built up over a number of years.
This week the NSW Premier has made announcements about the reopening of businesses and facilities for the community use. Her announcement also came with a warning for everyone to social distance, to respect the number limits placed on venues and to ensure that you do not come in contact with others who have a potential to spread this virus.
Council and its staff have been working through the Federal Government’s 3 Step Framework for a COVID Safe Australia to ensure that the Federal and NSW Health Department advice on sanitising can be undertaken for public facilities such as playground and gym equipment.
Council would like to take a cautious approach to reopening our facilities as the Warren Shire Community has been very fortunate to only have one (1) reported case of COVID-19 and we would like to ensure that the health and safety of our community is at the forefront in all our decisions when we reopen our facilities.
We are aware that some of the closures have impacted on our community such as the Service NSW Agency and some of our sporting or recreational facilities. These have been closed as required by NSW Government advice as to staff and community protection and in time these will reopen, but under a controlled process to assist social distancing.
The first facility we believe can open is the showground racecourse area on the basis that each user group ensures that they maintain social distancing and take responsibility to clean and sanitise their facilities. We will progressively open areas such as the skate park, Macquarie Park and the outdoor gym at Victoria Park. Again, this will require each user to bring their own sanitiser, hand wipes or cleaning products to be used whilst at the facility and to clean equipment after you use it.
It will be said that cleaning is a Council responsibility, which it is, and we will clean equipment regularly, but disease spread from one person to another person is all our responsibility and to ensure you or a family member are protected, we ask that you take responsibility with us to reduce the virus spread.
We ask that the community be patient, remain attentive to social distancing and take your own precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Saturday saw the passing of the most unusual of ANZAC Days with services not taking place as result of the COVID-19 pandemic. I was however able to place a wreath on behalf of Council at our Memorial in Macquarie Park. Like many of you Jenny and I stood at the end of our driveway at 6 am and listened to the dawn service from Canberra. Headlights and tail lights indicated that others around us were doing the same.
In the same vein, although the Council Administration Building and the Works Depot are closed to the public, all staff are still working and able to assist with inquiries via telephone or email.
Council staff have not been able to cover all of the roads in the Shire to ascertain what damage has occurred as a result of the recent welcome rain. If there is a road problem that you feel Council is not aware of please contact Council’s Engineering Department and alert them. As you can imagine the most urgent works are being given priority.
During the last couple of weeks Council along with its contractor Fulton Hogan has resealed a significant number of kilometres of rural roads. With more moisture available grading has also taken place along the Elsinore Road, Castlebar Lane and Canonba Road. Drivers should be aware of reconstruction occurring on the Carinda Road that necessitates slowing down with the road being widened.
It is my hope that as a result of adherence to the rules around minimising the spread of coronavirus and the diminishing rate of new cases that our lives will eventually be closer to what is normal. With winter ‘flu season’ approaching however, this is not the time for complacency.
Keep an eye out for Council’s newsletter which was published on Tuesday.
To ensure that social distancing rules are complied with and to maintain the safety and wellbeing of the entire community, RaRMS Health Warren is operating\n with locked doors.
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We request that ALL patients phone the practice on (02) 6847 4326 for appointments, triage and advice.
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All patients are screened for COVID19 (coronavirus) symptoms on the telephone and triaged to determine one of the following options:
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1. A telephone (or Telehealth) appointment
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2. A presentation to the practice to see the Doctor face to face OR
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3. A present to the Warren MPHS (Hospital)
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When advised to attend RaRMS Health Warren, patients are again screened, asked to wash or sanitise their hands, and may be asked to wear a facemask; all\n of which will be available on presentation.
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Please note, also on arrival patients are asked to phone the practice and may be asked to wait in their car or on the seats provided outside, and our Reception\n staff will advise when to enter.
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It is important to note that:
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At present we are restricting the number of patients in the building to -
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1 adult OR
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1 parent and 1 child; to ensure staff and patient wellbeing\n \n
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Currently the majority of consultations are being provided via telephone with Dr. Jesrani.\n \n
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Other Services:
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All Allied Health Services, Dietician and Diabetic Educator consultations are ongoing and being provided via telephone.\n \n
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Podiatry services are currently suspended.
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Laverty Pathology services are currently reduced to Monday and Wednesday and all patients are requested to contact RaRMS Health Warren for an appointment.
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We ask parents requiring Childhood Immunisations to contact the Child and Family Health Nurse at Warren MPHS on (02) 6847 5400.
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Immunisations for the Flu will be available from RaRMS Health Warren at a later date and the community will be notified as soon as possible when and how\n these clinics will occur.
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Please understand that we are experiencing a high volume of calls, so we ask the community to bear with us during this difficult time. Our Reception staff\n are doing an amazing job in exceptional circumstances and we would appreciate the Community's assistance.
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Thank you to the community for your patience and understanding.
Council was informed on Friday that a positive test to coronavirus had occurred in the Warren Shire Council Local Government Area. I wish the affected\n person well.
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We must be concerned but not alarmed. That we have one person affected in our Shire is a timely reminder to us all that we must isolate and maintain strict\n social distancing when unavoidably out of our homes.
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To align with the Federal and State Governments restrictions and to protect both Council Staff and the public, I with the General Manager took the decision\n on Friday to close Warren Shire Council’s Administration Centre for face to face contact.
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This means that the Warren Service NSW Agency is closed.
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The Warren Shire Office is closed.
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The Warren Shire Library is closed.
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The Warren Shire depot is closed.
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The Warren War Memorial Swimming Pool is closed.
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However, Council staff are still available to take your calls 8.30 am - 5.00 pm weekdays. Council’s phone will be diverted to an on call officer outside\n normal office hours and on weekends and public holidays.
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The two services below are not presently affected.
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The Warren Ewenmar Waste Depot is operating as normal.
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The Warren garbage pick up is operating as normal.
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Please isolate and only leave home in the case of medical appointments and for essential grocery shopping. We must minimise the opportunity for spread\n of the virus.
While it’s business as usual at Warren Shire Council (WSC), we are listening to advice from the experts and implementing some measures in the workplace that will ensure we maintain a safe workplace for our staff, while minimising the potential for interruptions to our community.
As part of these new measures, we have implemented a new phone system in an attempt to minimise hold times and call durations.
When you call WSC you may be asked to leave a message for general services (payments, general enquiries) or for technical services (engineering, building, planning or animal control). The messages will be directed to the appropriate department and a staff member will return your call as soon as possible.
The process for reporting issues or complaints will remain the same, and as always you can send an email to council@warren.nsw.gov.au
WSC is reducing its face to face contact at public counters and unless critical that a meeting is held in person, the staff will contact you by phone. If a face to face meeting is required, we request that you advise staff of any illness, recent overseas travel, that you are required to be in self isolation or have come in contact with persons who may or suspected of having Coronavirus. Council staff will also offer you the same advice.
Council may be required to reduce its service levels over the disease phase due to staff entering self or forced isolation. We will ensure that water, sewerage and garbage services will be maintained, however we may fall behind on mowing, street cleaning or roadworks. We know you understand and appreciate the seriousness of this pandemic and we hope that our staff and community do not fall subject to the virus.
If you are a farmer, farm worker or farm supplier/contractor in the Warren Shire who is struggling financially because of the drought, you may be entitled to receive a one-off payment of up to $3,000 funded by the Australian Government's Drought Community Support Initiative. Find out more.
You can also find out more about other drought relief initiatives in the Drought Relief Information section of the Council website.
This Saturday we welcome Mr Sam Farraway MLC, who is the Duty MLC for Barwon which includes Warren.
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Mr Farraway will officially open five projects that have been funded by the NSW State Government. These include the revitalised Macquarie Park, the walkway\n linking Macquarie Park and Victoria Oval, the external storage facility at Victoria Oval, the emergency generator at the Warren Sporting and Cultural\n Centre and of course the two wonderful outdoor netball courts and half basketball court at the same venue.\n \n
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Everyone is welcome at 10.00 am in the rejuvenated Macquarie Park. It is anticipated that a walking tour of the other projects will follow ending at the\n netball courts and the Official Opening.\n \n
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I am delighted that the recently opened Skate Park is being so well used. Thumbs down, however, to those who left broken glass in the bottom of the skate\n bowl. A massive thumbs up though to the two boys who, I am told, went to their own homes and returned with a broom and a dust pan to clean up the mess.\n It is a wonderful facility for everyone. Let’s look after it.\n \n
With the recent advent of Australia Day, I want to take the opportunity to congratulate everyone nominated for an Australia Day Award. I particularly congratulate\n the award winners in each category and most importantly our Citizen of the Year, Grace Brennan, founder of the #BuyfromtheBush campaign.
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The Awards again highlighted the number of good people doing good things in our community. I believe a record twenty two different nominations were received\n with multiple nominations for the same person also occurring in a couple of categories. All of the nominees have worked selflessly to better the Warren\n district, our town, villages and locations. They should all be proud of their efforts.\n \n
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I also draw your attention to the free Skateboarding Workshops and Demonstrations to be held this Saturday 8th February from 9am until 12 midday to mark\n the opening of the skatepark to the public. A “soft” opening will be held at 10am between the two workshops. Registrations for the workshops are essential\n and details can be found online at TotemSkateboarbing.com. Whilst the huge and complex concrete structure is complete, public fundraising will still\n be required to help with the cost of landscaping the area in order to make it a pleasant place to visit.\n \n
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The Skate Park is the first stage of the complete redevelopment of the Carter Oval precinct.\n \n
Warren Weir is on Amber Alert for blue-green algae. Algae concentration have decreased. Stock managers upstream and downstream of the weir should seek\n alternate water supplies. Domestic users should apply caution and seek alternate water supplies if algae scums become visible.
Warren Shire Council has obtained funding via the NSW Government's Regional School Holiday Activities Fund.
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Events that will be held during the Summer Holidays utilising this funding and coordinated in partnership with the Warren Youth Foundation are:
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23/1 - From 11am - Pool party at Warren Swimming Pool. Free entry and BBQ provided. Children under 12 years of age require adult supervision to attend\n this event*.
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26/1 - From 12 noon - Inflatable at the Warren Swimming Pool. Free pool entry and gold coin donation to use the inflatable. BBQ available for gold\n coin donation. Funds raised to go towards the landscaping of the Warren Skate Park.
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30/1 - 7pm - Movie night at the Warren Sporting and Cultural Centre. 'Jumanji - Welcome to the Jungle' will be shown. BBQ, drinks and snacks will be\n available for purchase and funds raised will go towards the landscaping of the Warren Skate Park. (Event coordinated by the Warren Youth Foundation.)
Contact Warren Shire Council on (02) 6847 6600 for more information.
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*For events held at the Warren Swimming Pool, the Conditions of Entry apply - \n \n Conditions of Entry to Pool:\n - Suitable/proper swimming attire only, to be worn in swimming pool.\n - Children under the age of 10 years MUST be accompanied by an adult/supervisor 18 years or over, to gain entry to the Swimming Pool. Those children\n 10 years of age and over, must provide proof of age documentation (ie Birth Certificate or extract), prior to being granted entry. There is a limit\n of 5 children (under the age of 10), that can be accompanied by a single adult to the Pool. Pool Management Staff may refuse entry of children on these\n grounds.\n - The Warren Memorial Swimming Pool is a non-smoking facility.\n - Closure may occur subject to weather, maintenance and low patronage.
Stage 1 of the Skate Park Construction can now be viewed below:
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The Skate Park is the first stage of the complete redevelopment of the Carter Oval precinct. This Murray Darling Basin Economic Development Program\n project received grant funding from the Australian Government.
Council would like to advise all residents, ratepayers and landowners that the water level in the Macquarie River between the weirs is rapidly reducing.\n NSW Water manages the water in the Macquarie River.
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Council operates 2 water supply systems one being bore water and the river water system that is used for lawns and gardens and firefighting.
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To ensure that the Warren township firefighting system is available, Council will soon change over the river water to bore water.
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Council would like to advise that the bore water contains salt and that this may cause damage to plants and lawns. \n
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Before using the irrigation water on plants and lawns you should check that the water will not cause damage to your plants, trees or lawns.
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Council is required to provide water through the river water supply to fight fires. Please take note of this urgent notice and the use of river water.\n
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Water Restriction times will remain the same from 6am to 9am on the odds and evens scheme to be re-evaluated again in January 2020.
In the final Mayor’s Desk of 2019, I want to take the opportunity to wish everyone a happy and safe festive season.\n
The lead up to Christmas has been busy.
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Council has held village meetings in Nevertire and Collie to update residents on their respective Village Enhancement Plans. Work in both villages\n has progressed well despite the very dry conditions with drainage and road works occurring and all streets in Collie and streets west of the Oxley\n Highway in Nevertire having been sealed. This work is part of a ten year plan.
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The Christmas Street Party has been rightly hailed as a wonderful event that brings our community together. Congratulations to the organising committee.
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On Monday 9th December the General Manager and I attended the Orana Joint Organisation of Councils Meeting in Mudgee. A number of presentations were\n made. Those pertaining most to us regarded health and freight transport. In addition, unanimous support was given for Dubbo Regional Council to\n join the organisation.
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Our last full Council meeting for 2019 was held on the 5th December. Committee meetings continue however through December and January.
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Friday night saw a revised form of the Twilight Races take place. The Warren Jockey Club is to be congratulated for being able to race when other meetings\n around the region are being cancelled because of the understandable poor condition of tracks.
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Earthworks for the Skate Park in the Carter Oval sporting precinct are complete. The contractors awarded the construction contract have chosen to utilise\n the services of a local for the provision of concrete as pours begin.
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A reminder that Australia Day will soon be upon us. I believe there are many people in our community worthy of nomination for awards. Please nominate\n them.
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Let’s put a close to 2019 recognising that much has been achieved by your Council but that it is a difficult time for absolutely everyone in the Warren\n Shire.
At the recent Council meeting held on the 5th December 2019 the following recommendation to the current level 3 water restrictions were made;
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That level 3 water restrictions remain the same with watering to remain from 6am to 9am only, in accordance with the odds and even scheme. This allows for more reliable water pressure of a morning to cope with the quantity of users. Council will be monitoring users to ensure compliance with these restrictions are followed.
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These water restrictions will be reviewed again in January 2020.
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Residents not complying with the current level 3 water restrictions will firstly be given a verbal warning, followed by written and if then found to still\n not comply may be issued with a penalty. \n
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Business houses will be required to advise of their water management usage patterns if they are unable to comply with the above restrictions.
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Warren Shire Council will continue to water recreational areas after 9pm as to not interfere with current residential watering times and to give sufficient\n time for the river water reservoirs to recharge. If current weather patterns continue to worsen Council will reassess its water usage plan.
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Council does acknowledge that the water restrictions are an inconvenience for residents, but request that everyone complies with the restrictions to assist\n with the longevity of water within the shire, and to allow for water availability for essential services.
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Should you have any concerns regarding this matter please do not hesitate to contact Council on 68 476 600.
Council wishes to advise that at the 23rd January 2020 Ordinary Meeting of Council will not be held. The next meeting of Council is scheduled\n for the 27th February 2020.
It was wonderful to see Warren shown in such a positive light on the nationally televised Today Show last Tuesday morning.
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Amanda Brien and her team at the Services Club are to be warmly congratulated on staging such a wonderful event. In the same vein, well done to all those\n who spoke or performed and a particular shout out to the staff and students from both of our schools, the preschool and Little Possums who were great\n ambassadors for our town.\n \n
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I must make mention of Grace Brennan and the significant group of young women sporting the orange “#buy from the bush” logo. What a phenomenon you have\n created not just for Warren, but for lots of country boutique businesses.\n \n
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Council’s Water Conservation Committee in consultation with Council’s Parks and Gardens Crew has recommended implementing further measures to preserve\n our river water. These were passed by Council on Thursday with the water level between the two weirs decreasing and with minimal potential for top\n ups. Amongst the new measures adopted is the introduction of amended restrictions on the watering of household gardens. This can now occur between\n the hours of 6.00 am and 9.00 am only and on the odds and evens basis that is already in place. Council will not water during this period so that reasonable\n water pressure can be maintained. Council will undertake limited watering of parks and gardens in the evenings. A letterbox drop will occur outlining\n what we are asking residents to do.\n \n
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We are meeting with Macquarie Regional Water Strategy Committee on Wednesday, 30th October for an update on water issues. Our own strategy will be reviewed\n at the next monthly Council meeting to be held 5th December.\n \n
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The bores supplying potable water continue to function well with levels of salinity remaining stable and within Department of Health guidelines. Council\n is fully aware of leaks from the Stafford Street potable water reservoir. Whilst appearing significant the leaks are in fact minimal. Occupational\n Health and Safety concerns and the impossibility of adequate repairs mean that we are talking with government seeking funding for its replacement.\n \n
I firstly want to acknowledge the difficult position all our residents are in at this time of unprecedented dry be they townspeople, contractors, businesses,\n graziers, farmers or irrigators. We really are where we have never been before.
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I intend to use this Mayor’s Column to discuss some of the issues raised in a letter addressed to the General Manager, Warren Shire Council in last week’s\n Warren Weekly.
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The recent ratepayers information booklet did contain an error where 2.3% was written instead of 2.7%. This was a staff clerical error. All that Council\n can do is apologise for that. There was no attempt to mislead. The draft budget figures and the adopted budget figures were correct. The draft budget\n was put on display for 28 days before it was adopted again containing the correct figures. No public comment was received.
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There is no doubt that the table outlining grant funding was difficult to understand. A clearer table has been placed on Council’s website. Those whose\n names appear at the end of the letter will also receive the clearer table.
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Council has made representation at every opportunity to State and Federal politicians and candidates seeking funding to offset the total 2.7% rate increase\n across the whole Shire. Representations were made to Kevin Humphries previous State Member for Barwon, Andrew Schier candidate for the State seat of\n Barwon, Roy Butler current Member for Barwon, Mark Coulton Federal Member for Parkes, Adam Marshall, Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW and through\n him Shelley Hancock, Minister for Local Government, Peter Primrose, Shadow Minister for Local Government, Linda Scott, President of Local Government\n NSW and the Orana Joint Organisation of Councils.
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Although Council can make decisions on its own budgets, it has no influence on the budget process of other Councils. Warren Shire does have the support\n of our adjoining Councils in seeking funding to offset the 2.7% but our actions will not influence how other Councils determine their budget needs.\n Council will consider a future report from our finance section as to rating and the impacts of not taking or deferring rate increases on services.
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It is worth noting that $129,000 deducted from the budget for 2019/2020 would mean that over the future ten year period, $1.29M would not be spent on infrastructure\n and services. Rural roads are our biggest expenditure area. Council at the time of framing the Budget felt that small increases were much more palatable\n than playing catch up at a later date with potentially larger rate increases as some of our neighbouring councils have done in the past.
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Contrary to the letter in this newspaper, all of our neighbouring Orana and beyond rural Councils have adopted a 2.7% rate variation for 2019/2020.
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Hardship provisions for ratepayers are easy to access and are not token provisions, again contrary to what is asserted in the letter. People should use\n these provisions if they require them. No financials are required. It is simply a matter of speaking to Council’s Manager of Finance and Administration\n and making a payment arrangement. I would be disappointed if a ratepayer had required assistance in this regard but had not sought assistance because\n of the incorrect information in last week’s letter. It would have been better for the writers of the letter to have sought clarification on hardship\n provisions prior to making a flippant comment.
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A mayoral column a couple of weeks ago highlighted the difficulties Council was having with maintaining rural unsealed roads and effective edge grading\n of sealed roads during the current dry conditions. Since that time we have been offered water at three different locations to help with road works.\n At present we would prefer to be offered water for roads, rather than asking for it from landholders who may already be short of water.
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I hope that this column addresses the issues raised in last week’s letter to the editor. All of your Councillors are ratepayers and no decision is taken\n lightly, particularly in the current circumstances.
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The General Manager and I and indeed all Councillors are happy to listen to resident’s concerns. I believe meeting face to face is always the best way\n to understand and resolve issues. I invite anyone to contact Warren Shire Council to arrange a time to meet.
Many residents will have received a flyer from WaterNSW which details Temporary Drought Works for the Macquarie Valley.
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Amongst these measures is the temporary raising of the top Warren weir by 50cm to further divert water down the Gunningbar Creek and Albert Priest Channel\n to Nyngan and Cobar. Total flow will be about 50 ML per day.\n \n
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In light of this, Council has been working with WaterNSW and the Critical Water Advisory Panel in order to maintain the water level in the weir pool between\n Warren’s top and bottom weirs. WaterNSW will establish an upper and lower water level for the weir pool. When the water level reaches its lower limit\n some of the temporary drop boards at the top weir will be removed and the water level reinstated to its upper limit.\n \n
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I would like to remind town residents that water restriction times do apply on an odds and even basis. Your assistance in staying within the times will\n assist everyone to access water.\n \n
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This means that fire fighting ability will be maintained for as long as possible. If zero inflow were to occur into Burrendong Dam, mid 2020 becomes a\n critical time for Warren’s river water supply.\n \n
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Council’s Local Emergency Management Committee is implementing measures to ensure that should this worst case ensue, firefighting capacity will be maintained\n to protect both life and property, contrary to some views.\n \n
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On the other side, maintenance work is being undertaken on Warren’s Levee system by staff and local contractors. A report has been received on the status\n of the levee and a plan prepared to rehabilitate washed out areas.\n \n
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The continuing dry period and lack of available water has made it difficult to repair and maintain unsealed roads and do edge grading of sealed roads effectively\n and as planned. Our rural residents should be rest assured that as soon as the season changes all of our grader crews will be out rectifying this situation.\n \n
Last week Council had its June Monthly meeting and as part of the meeting the Council considered several important areas that have been a subject of social\n media this last week.
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Council’s Town Improvement Committee met in June and has reported to Council.\n \n
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I would like to address a few of the items from that Town Improvement Committee meeting to ensure that our whole community is aware of the discussion that\n took place within that Committee. Unfortunately, by providing minutes in point form, the true discussion at the time was not captured and social media\n has unfairly targeted staff and Councillors. I wish to apologise to the staff especially.
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The first item concerns Lions Park. Council has been vested a portion of the estate of a former Lions Club member to be used solely to upgrade Lions Park.\n Council has invited the Lions Club President to meet with the Town Improvement Committee so that the Lions Club can help develop a plan for upgrades\n with Council to Lions Park.\n \n
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The Committee also discussed several items as general business.\n \n
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Clr Williamson presented an item on murals specifically for shopfronts provided by Mr Bruce Lynch. This was discussed and Councillors and staff asked legitimate\n questions regarding the purpose / goals of such a project; the costs; how the subject matter and artists would be chosen; the longevity of the works\n and indeed, even if building owners desire and approve of murals on their building. A project like this would likely depend entirely on grant funding.\n As a result, the letter from artist Bryce Lynch was forwarded to the Economic Development Department to look into these issues and then report back\n to the Town Improvement Committee. Councillor Williamson would further speak with Mr Lynch.\n \n
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The Committee discussed the need for a public toilet in the Main Street area. Council is reviewing its Dubbo Street upgrade plans.\n \n
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The Committee considered a request for garbage bins at the Spar Supermarket / Chemist area. The area in question is not Council owned. The Committee will\n consider the existing bin locations and discuss with the land owner the need for a bin on this land. Comment was also made from the Committee on the\n damaged brickwork surrounding the garden beds from cars hitting the walls; and with the Buxus hedging was not thriving, if the irrigation system was\n working as intended.\n \n
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The Committee also considered plant requirements for the garden beds and tree surrounds in Dubbo Street. New spring plantings will occur in August.\n \n
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The Committee was presented with a request from members of the public to provide gardens adjacent to the entry signs to the villages. A trial site can\n be established, and the committee will seek further advice on plant types that are suitable in these locations given limited water availability.\n \n
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Councillors are happy for the community to contact them and make suggestions as to improvements they may wish to see in relation to the improvement of\n our town and villages. These can then be presented to the Town Improvement Committee for consideration at their meetings. Councillors are also available\n to discuss any item raised at Council or through its Committees. This will ensure that the correct information is available to the community.\n \n
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I would also like to remind all members of the community that they can attend Council meetings and listen to the discussion. The next Council meeting will\n be held in the Council Chambers on Thursday 25th July 2019 and everyone is welcome.\n \n
Congratulations to the Warren P and A Society on the hosting of a wonderful 140th Warren Show over the June long weekend. It was a great event with an\n excellent crowd of both locals and visitors in attendance and with many favourable comments being received.
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Councillors took the opportunity to host an information tent at the Show and were able to answer any number of questions from ratepayers and residents.\n Many related to the further development of the Showground Racecourse area and the master plan for the development of the Carter Oval Youth and Sporting\n precinct. These exciting projects will enhance our Shire considerably. The Showground project is fully grant funded. The Carter Oval project is a ten\n year plan and will again depend on grant funding. Many of those who came to speak with councillors also had constructive comments as to how services\n could be improved, roads improved and our town and villages enhanced.
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All of your councillors are ratepayers and as such, have a vested interest in making sound decisions on your behalf aimed at having an efficient, service\n providing organisation. I encourage all residents with questions to speak with either me , the ten other councillors or with the General Manager in\n order to avoid confusion as to what actually is happening at your Council and the basis on which decisions are made.
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Councillors are continually talking with ratepayers and residents. Council’s May meeting was held in Nevertire allowing residents to speak directly with\n councillors and senior management. Moreover, all monthly Council meetings are open to the public. Councillors will continue to be available at public\n events like Australia Day, the Show and the forthcoming September Rotary Spring Festival.
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Those who have visited Victoria Oval in the last two weeks will have noticed the commencement of the installation of two outdoor hard court netball courts\n and a half court basketball court. Council has helped financially with this project after the grant funding applied for by the Warren Netballers fell\n short what was required for its completion.
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Last Wednesday the General Manager and I met with the Hon. Adam Marshall, Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW. It was a fruitful meeting where we\n were able to canvas a number of State Government issues including the bottom weir, the town levee, rate relief and targeted drought funding.
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On Friday, l, along with a number of councillors and the General Manager, welcomed the Member for Barwon, Roy Butler to Warren. State issues were again\n raised. At the forefront of discussions were the bottom weir, the possibility of a rate rebate in response to the drought, a dementia unit and levee\n repairs.
Warren Shire Council as part of the Carter Oval Youth and Sport precinct has commenced the research and design of a skate park facility. Council has employed\n Oasis Skate Parks P/L a Ballina based design and skate park construction company to meet with the local community and design a skate park that will\n be the envy of other towns around the Central West.\n \n
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Mayor Milton Quigley told us that the Warren Community has been seeking a skate park for many years and although Council was supportive of the project\n in the past, a location could not be agreed upon with the community members at that time. Council as part of its redesign of Carter Oval to become\n a youth precinct that will support families through to young adults includes the skate park in its concept design. The Oasis company has extensive\n experience in skate park design and recently completed parks at Blayney and Oberon.
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The first stage in the skate park design is to have local input into what the youth want to see in the design, to allow the park to be used for skate boards,\n scooters and possibly bikes, and to ensure that the design will allow for the youth to grow in experience as they master the various design features\n Mayor Quigley advised. We would like as many people to attend and meet the consultant on Saturday 18th May between 3 and 5pm in Carter Oval\n and take to opportunity to discuss the skate park but also the whole of the Carter Oval concept.
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Council advised that the design of the skate park is the initial step in seeking grant funding from the State and Federal Governments. It is estimated\n that the skate park section will cost around $400,000 and Council needs to seek grant funds as well as community funding to complete the project. Council\n is hoping that the next round (if one becomes available) of the Building Better Community Grants will allow for some of the funding to be allocated\n towards the skate park.
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Mayor Quigley said, that although we are planning and designing the skate park, it is to have it shovel ready to submit under a grant program and hopefully\n we will be successful. Council has moved to strategically planning its general works and village upgrades; to be successful in the competition for\n grant funding. Our staff and Councillors have been successful recently as we have taken the time to develop village plans, to design park areas and\n look at footpath connections. We are very positive about this skate park and with the community input into the design, we can see that this will also\n be successful.
This week it saddens me that I must report some incidents of vandalism occurring in the Warren main street area and across our parks and sporting fields.\n
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Unfortunately, this occurs from time to time and we see and all pay for the damage that is done by people in our community. Council and its staff endeavour\n to clean up rubbish, broken bottles and repair broken sprinkler heads to prevent them spraying water everywhere as quickly as is practical in an effort\n to maintain an attractive town for our residents, visitors and tourists alike.\n \n
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Vandalism costs the rate payers and residents money and stops Council spending money on other areas of town improvement. We all need to take an active\n role in preventing vandalism or youthful anti social activities so as to ensure that your money is spent on enhancing our town, the parks and gardens\n and the business areas rather than on repairs, replacement or clean-ups of rubbish.\n \n
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Council does report incidents to the local Police who take these matters seriously and support our community. Please assist Council and the Police in reporting\n vandalism so we can keep our villages attractive.\n \n
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As reported last week, Level 3 Water Restrictions will commence on the 19th March 2019. A Regional guide to Level 3 Water Restrictions has been advertised\n in this paper as a guide to what will potentially occur. Council’s Water Committee meet today to get to some finer details as to what is actually necessary\n in Warren, Nevertire and Collie. Again, I would like to request your co-operation in supporting this restriction.\n \n
This week I would like to report on discussions held at the Western Councils Conference at Bourke last week and recognise the difficulties that our neighbours\n are having with water. NSW Water Minister Niall Blair provided advice to the conference that water management needs reviewing, and that State and Federal\n Governments recognise the issues around water management. It was indicated that in our area, changes will be made to weirs and that a potential upgrade\n to the Gin Gin Weir to give it regulator capacity may occur. Unfortunately, the Minister could not make it rain and the progressive drop in water levels\n at Burrendong Dam will impact on the residents of Warren township as well as our adjoining councils of Bogan and Cobar who rely on water from the Albert\n Priest Channel.
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In line with this, Council at its meeting on Thursday 28th February considered the need to start moving to Level 3 water restrictions. This is for two\n reasons, one, being prudent in conserving water in the event that the dry continues and two to respect the difficulties that our neighbouring councils\n are having with a lack of water.Council has agreed that Level 3 Water Restrictions will apply across Warren, Nevertire and Collie from Tuesday 19th\n March 2019. Council will review water use and river water availability through an advisory committee also established on 28th February which will provide\n information to Council as to the necessity of future water restrictions if the upper catchment and dam does not receive substantial inflows. Modelling\n back to the 1902 drought shows inflows, should Burrendong have existed then, to be at historic lows by a considerable margin.\n \n
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Council much prefers to be proactive rather than reactive in the present water environment. Decisions taken now will hopefully hold us in much better stead\n than having to make decisions under pressure in the future if the dry continues.\n \n
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I would like to seek all resident’s assistance in complying with Level 3 Water Restrictions. More details can be found through a letter box drop, in this\n paper and on our website.\n \n
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On a brighter note, I would like to congratulate Mr David (Diddles) George on his recent retirement from Council. David has work with us for 39 years.\n It was with pleasure that David and his wife Debbie attended Council so we could thank him for his long service and the work he has undertaken to make\n Warren Shire a better place. I would like to wish David all the best in his retirement.
This week I would like to congratulate Cr Rex Wilson on the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to him by LGNSW. LGNSW is the peak local government industry\n body for councils across NSW and the award presented to Rex is only the second award in this category. That Rex has been recognised by his peers for\n his significant community service to the residents of the Warren Shire through his extraordinary term in Local Government and possibly as the longest\n serving Mayor in NSW is a great honour. On behalf of Council I would like to congratulate Rex, Robynne and the family on receiving this award.
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As we lead into the State Election, Councillors and staff have been talking to the main candidates about a number of issues around health care, the support\n of grant funding to assist the development of sport, and to look at future road upgrades. The lead up to an election is always a good time to remind\n candidates about the communities needs and wants and to highlight issues that are of concern for the majority of the rural community.\n \n
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During this week Councillors will travel to the Western Division Shire's Conference at Bourke to discuss issues with current government Ministers and staff\n and to talk further with candidates standing in the Barwon electorate.\n \n
Media Release - The Hon Mark Coulton MP - Federal Member for Parkes - Assistant Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment\n
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25 February 2019\n
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Residents of the Warren Shire Council area will soon see funds flow for drought support, with $900,000 worth of projects now approved under the Coalition’s\n Drought Communities Programme (DCP).\n
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Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said he is delighted that Council has now had four of their proposed local projects approved.
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“I am so pleased to give the go-ahead for Warren Shire Council to deliver projects that will greatly benefit the community, especially in the current challenging\n dry times,” Mr Coulton said.\n
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“Council will use $600,000 in DCP funding for water management and drought-proofing including the provision of water storage tanks at Collie, water storage\n and piping to Warren Airport, and the provision of water troughs along local stock routes.\n \n
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“With further DCP funding, Council will deliver fencing and development projects at the local airport and library, and rejuvenate six halls in the shire.\n \n
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“I know these projects will provide a much-welcome boost for locals and visitors, and I look forward to seeing them evolve.”\n \n
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The approved projects include:
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• $600,000 for water management and drought-proofing in Warren Shire – provision of water storage tanks (reservoir) at Collie village;\n water storage and piping to Warren Airport and industrial estate; provision of water troughs along stock routes in the shire\n
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• $160,000 for fencing at Warren Airport and fencing/development at Warren Library
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• $60,000 for local halls in Warren Shire – Nevertire Hall; Warren CWA Hall; Endeavour Hall in Warren; Collie CWA Hall; Marthaguy Hall;\n Marra Hall
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• $80,000 for drought relief events in Warren, Nevertire, Collie, Marthaguy and The Marra (announced in December 2018)
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The DCP was extended last year to provide support of $1 million each to all 18 councils in the Parkes electorate including Warren, as well as the Unincorporated\n Area.\n \n
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The DCP - Extension is targeted at projects that stimulate local community spending by using local resources, businesses, suppliers and workers, or provide\n long-lasting benefits for communities and agricultural industries.\n \n
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Minister for Regional Services, Local Government and Decentralisation Bridget McKenzie said despite the impact of natural disasters, rural and regional\n Australia continues to punch above its weight in the nation’s economy.\n \n \n
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“We know when our regions are strong so is our nation,” Minister McKenzie said.\n \n
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“With regional Australia accounting for around two-thirds of our exports and employing hundreds of thousands of Australians, supporting these communities\n now is a small price to pay to ensure we keep the economy growing.”\n \n
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Funding is available to eligible councils for local infrastructure projects and other drought-relief activities. Project funding is intended to provide\n short-term support, including by boosting local employment and procurement, and addressing social and community needs. For details on the DCP – Extension\n see https://www.business.gov.au/assistance/drought-communities-programme
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Further updates on other successful council projects in the Parkes electorate will be made in the near future.\n
Over the last couple of months Council has seen an increase in the number of comments on social media that have raised concerns about Council not undertaking\n works to fix problems for residents. Council is always looking to improve its service provision. The main and first thing is that Council needs to\n be made aware of any problem. This week I would like to use this column to discuss how you as a resident can help Councillors and staff to provide\n an improved service.
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As you would understand, Council staff can not be everywhere. Although our overseers try and drive every road regularly and attend the parks to look for\n areas of improvement, we do need your help to identify pot holes, overgrown weeds or general items that need maintenance.\n \n
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To help us and to help the community with problems, Council has always had a reporting system that we call a Bluey (blue paper) that allows any member\n of the community to ring, email or drop into the office and report an item they believe needs attention. The system works well when used by the public\n and the issues are monitored by Councillors and staff to ensure works are undertaken in a timely fashion. Council does not monitor Facebook or Twitter\n accounts.Council only becomes aware of Issues being raised on social media via staff seeing various comments. Once we know of these issues the staff\n fill out a bluey and have work undertaken. I believe it is always best to contact Council direct to raise any concerns you have.In that way you will\n get the correct information immediately.You will also get an indication of when work is likely to be undertaken.\n \n
This week Council staff have been reading and signing the agreements for grant funding from both the State and Federal Governments. Even though funding\n announcements are made and we see photos with cheques being present, no money is actually transferred to Council at that time. It can take many months\n for the agreements to arrive at Council and it is only then we can begin to invoice the governments for part of the grant funds as project milestones\n are achieved.
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Council has received agreements for the Warren Swimming Pool ($742,000), the Nevertire Hall ($48,500) the Warren Showground and Racecourse ($1.755 million),\n the Macquarie Marshes project with RiverSmart ($3.091) million, and the Village Enhancement Grant ($742,000). A funding Deed of Agreement has also\n been received for the Wonbobbie Bridge ($890,000). Council has also received advice as to funding in order to run water to the airport and at Collie\n ($600,000) combined and also for the fencing of the airport to stop wildlife entry for improved air safety and fencing for the library grounds ($160,000).\n \n
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Council through a grant from the Roads and Maritime Services under the Drought Relief Heavy Vehicle Access Program, has commenced work at Nevertire on\n the Nevertire Bogan Road. This small section just south of the railway line is in need of repair due to heavy vehicle use. We would like to ask the\n public to slow down as you go through these road works and be patient. Council will be there for around four weeks.\n \n
At Council we are working hard to undertake works across many areas and over the coming weeks we will report on many of these. This week I would like to\n report on Macquarie Park.\n \n
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Macquarie Park is undergoing a face lift. Council commenced the project prior to Christmas and delayed works whilst events such as Carols by Candlelight\n in the park were held. We temporary ceased work during the Christmas shut down, but we are in full swing again now.\n \n
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Council using its own staff and local contractors have removed footpaths and are in the process of pouring new concrete We are removing the old playground\n equipment and installing new equipment including a flying fox. We have extended electricity and water in order to install two banks of electric BBQ's.\n We are improving the access pathway and gardens from the Highway into the park and installing car parking from the lane off Lawson Street to allow\n elderly and access impaired persons to use the park.\n \n
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Council is funding the upgrade works from grants received from the NSW State Government.\n \n
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We would like to thank the community for its patience whilst this work is undertaken and the support of the local contractors and our Council staff who\n are working through this heat wave to keep the project on track.\n \n
Residents and visitors will note that works have commenced on the Macquarie Park area to open up the gardens and to revitalise the park structure. Council\n over the last couple of months has been planning to renew the gardens, undertake work on the trees to remove dangerous branches and to open up the\n view of the park from the highway to encourage visitors to stop.
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Macquarie Park has also received grant funding and Council staff have ordered new playground equipment, are looking at installing new footpaths, especially\n to make the toilets accessible for people with disabilities and to improve parking and recreational use by families. The improvements under the grant\n funding are $238,000.\n \n
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For our residents in Nevertire area, Council sealed 3 km of Thornton Road last week and will be preparing the final 4 kms of road surface for sealing in\n a few weeks time. This road has been planned for sealing many years ago and it is good to see that we are nearing competition.\n \n
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At Collie, Council and contractors have been hauling gravel into a stockpile to be ready for the sealing of roads in Collie Village and for the Bourbah\n Road. As part of the Village plan upgrades at Collie, drainage works, water main renewal and road sealing shall soon commence.\n \n
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Council was pleased to be part of the Remembrance Day commemoration held on Sunday 11.11.2018 marking 100 years since the conclusion of hostilities in\n the Great War. Whilst the number of service men and women may be diminishing it was pleasing to note the continued support of the community and the\n presence of students from both Warren Central School and St Mary’s School in the laying of wreaths.\n \n
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Council is very mindful of the impact the less than favourable season is having not only on our farmers and graziers, but also on contractors and the whole\n business community. To this end please keep in mind the Street Christmas Party to be held on Friday 7th December. It will provide an opportunity for\n us to all get together and at the same time support our local businesses.\n \n
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From previous columns, many will be aware that Council has been successful in obtaining a number of grants. These grants will mean that council staff will\n have a workload beyond what can normally be achieved in keeping up with day to day operations and already planned projects. As a result, we are looking,\n where possible, to outsource this additional work to local contractors and businesses. To be eligible for consideration contractors and businesses\n should register with Warren Shire Council.\n \n
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Council encourages registration so that we have a full inventory of the services, trades and goods available locally.\n \n
Warren Shire Council has been successful in receiving over $1.7 million of funding through the NSW Government’s Regional Sports Infrastructure Fund.
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The funding is for the redevelopment of the Warren Showground and Racecourse into a regional Equestrian Centre.
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Warren Shire Council’s Mayor, Councillor Milton Quigley said “The purpose of the project is to construct quality Equestrian sport infrastructure in order\n to hold more National, State and regional events. The project will result in improved participation across a broad range of sports. There will be significant\n economic, health and social outcomes for the region as a whole.”
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The successful application was as a result of a collaboration between the Council and the local user groups of the Showground/Racecourse including: the\n Central West Adult Riding Club, Warren Pony Club, Warren Rodeo (Campdraft) Inc, Warren Jockey Club, Warren P&A, Warren Polocrosse Association and\n the St Marys P&F.
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“The application process commenced a year ago and nearly one hundred pages of documentation were put together for the final application,” said Economic\n Development Team member, Alison Ruskin Rowe.
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“Council and the local community groups are hugely appreciative of the funding. It will provide a real boost to the region,” concluded Mayor Milton Quigley.
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For further information about the project visit Warren Shire Council’s website - http://www.warren.nsw.gov.au/development/projects
Council has been extremely busy this last month and it has been very successful due to the work of our staff in writing and submitting grant applications.Last\n week our Local Member Kevin Humphries presented Council and the community with two (2) cheques.The first one for $1.4 million under the Stronger Country\n Communities Fund – Round 2 Program and the second one for $1.75 million under the Regional Sports Infrastructure Fund Program.The project at the Showground\n / Racecourse Complex is a great community project and as a community we competed directly against the large regional councils.The work of the committee\n has allowed us to prove the Warren residents hit well above their weight.I commend the nine (9) user groups for being able to work together and with\n Council to achieve such a favourable outcome.
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I would like to thank the State Government and our Local Member for the support being shown to Warren Shire and I know we will all work together to complete\n the projects in our villages and at the Showground Racecourse.
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Council at its meeting last week considered the Federal Government’s Drought Funding and it identified a number of projects that will support our communities\n across the Shire.The projects will be offered to our local businesses to quote, provide materials, labour and plant hire.Council staff are working\n hard on their own projects and this additional money is to boost local spending and develop long term outcomes.We will release more information on\n these works once the Government has assessed our applications.
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As part of bringing the community together, Council will host a Christmas in the main street event of Friday, 7th December to provide entertainment and\n allow our local businesses across the shire to be supported.Council’s economic development staff are working to develop this event and we will be seeking\n support from schools, preschools, local organisations and especially businesses to make this event enjoyable.
Warren Shire Councillors at their meeting on Thursday 23rd August 2018, approved the provision of free water for rural land users at a rate of 10,000\n litres per month to help in meeting water needs for families and stock.\n
The Mayor indicated that as the drought tightens that Council would like to support rural people who have over many years supported Council with water\n to grade and build roads. It is time Council helped out and provided free water back to the rural properties.
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Free water up to 10,000 litres per month can be collected at Council's Ellengerah Water Tanks (end of Dubbo Street) or at the Nevertire stand pipe.
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Please contact Council for collection times.
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The form below will need to be completed prior to collection.\n
Warren Shire Council has been working with Warren Based Architect Belinda Dimarzio-Bryan of B Creative Architecture and Photography and adopted the following\n designs and plans for a new community centre and redeveloped Council office.
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The new community centre will allow a range of community gatherings, entertainment and social interaction as identified by Council. The building will house\n the accessible Council Chambers, but will be designed to allow a range of function options, from formal council meetings to committee style gatherings,\n to art or display use by the community. Find out more about the project here.
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If you have any questions please contact Warren Shire Council on (02) 6847 6600 or council@warren.nsw.gov.au
At the time of preparing this report on Sunday evening, many of us right across the Shire would be crossing our fingers that the predicted mid week change\n brings some worthwhile rain.
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With work about to get underway on finishing the Main Street upgrade, no one should object to further delay if it is due to wet weather. All the underground\n work involving water and sewerage connections has been completed, leaving the tree guards the focus before a general tidy up. Discussions are continuing\n with the RMS concerning the roundabout design and construction prior to finalisation of this very important feature of our town centre.
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Members of Council's Town Beautification Committee will be meeting shortly to make recommendations to Council so that this long drawn out project can be\n satisfactorily concluded. We do understand the frustrations caused to Main Street business houses especially and hope the result will in time be seen\n as worth the pain.
Support for farmers and their families facing drought has been boosted by $284 million in the NSW Budget 2018, bringing the NSW Government’s drought relief\n package to well over half a billion dollars.
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NSW DROUGHT PACKAGE
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The NSW Government’s drought package includes:
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An additional $250 million in the Farm Innovation Fund, which:
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provides farmers with low-interest loans of up to $250,000 to improve farm infrastructure and help farmers prepare for and deal with drought;
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introduces new loans of up to $50,000 that will be interest-free for seven years, to allow producers to bring in fodder and grain, to move livestock,\n or install key water infrastructure including troughs, underground pipes or water-saving technology;
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New criteria in the Farm Innovation Fund which allows farmers to use the loans to “bio-bank” the genetics of their herd that would otherwise be lost\n during de-stocking;
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Additional staff within the Department of Primary Industries to process and streamline Farm Innovation Fund applications;
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More than $4 million in mental health support for communities facing natural disaster and drought including:
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Support for the Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health, including continued funding for 13 statewide co-ordinators to link rural people to the\n help they need; and
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Additional counselling support through funding for the National Association for Loss and Grief, a Dubbo-based NGO.
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New funding of $25 million to build and operate three new Doppler radar weather stations in the Central West and Far West to improve weather forecasting\n and help farmers make better business decisions;
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A new kangaroo management plan to reduce kangaroo numbers in drought-hit areas, including:
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Removing the need for landholders to physically tag culled kangaroos;
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Removing the ‘shoot and let lie’ conditions to reduce bio-security risk;
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Expanding the commercial harvest zone for kangaroos in the South East of NSW; and
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Connecting landholders experiencing high kangaroo numbers with commercial harvesters through Local Land Services and other agencies.
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Up to $5 million towards helping local councils repair dirt roads damaged by the temporary access for heavy vehicles carrying feed, water and livestock.\n
The Northern Basin Review of the Murray Darling Basin Plan identified St George, Dirranbandi, Collarenebri and Warren as the most affected communities\n by measures identified in the Plan.
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St George and Dirranbandi are both located in the Balonne Shire just over the border in Queensland, which puts them in the electorate of the Federal Minister\n for Agriculture and Water Resources David Littleproud, who has indicated there is adjustment funding available. Richard Marsh, Balonne Shire's Mayor,\n organised a meeting in Lighting Ridge with Walgett Shire (as Collarenebri is in the Walgett Shire) and Warren Shire. As a result of this meeting two\n weeks ago, the Minister has agreed to meet with the three Councils this week in Canberra. We hope to be able to report a favourable outcome for all\n our communities covering all interest groups backed up by real dollars in the Budget.
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The good news this week concerns the NSW Government's announcement of funding for Doppler weather radar installations to cover western NSW, bringing us\n into line with the rest of the State. This decision demonstrates the value of Councils working together in OROC (the Orana Regional Organisation of\n Councils) and hopefully this spirit will continue under the new body to be known as the Orana Joint Organisation (JO) of Councils.
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The JO is more than a name change, with the State Government legislating to set up 11 JOs across NSW to include over 70 rural and regional Councils. The\n Orana JO met for the first time in Gilgandra last week and will consist of only six members of the original OROC group. Encouragingly our previous\n Chairman, the Mayor of Gilgandra Doug Batten, and our previous Executive Officer, Belinda Barlow, have both taken on these roles in the new Organisation.\n The aim of these changes is to enhance the way Local and State Governments work together to plan and deliver important regional infrastructure and\n investment. From our perspective, there is a great deal of goodwill to see that these new arrangements do deliver tangible benefits for the community.
All roads should lead to Warren at the end of this week for the NSW Country Rugby Union Zone Championships which our local club has done so well to secure\n for our Shire. Since the announcement some months ago, all those associated with the club have worked tirelessly to make the occasion a great success\n and have received massive support from right across the community in areas such as accommodation and meals for the expected hundreds of players and\n spectators. Council has played its part in providing first rate facilities enabling Warren to be considered as a venue initially and over the last\n few weeks the focus has been on ensuring all our facilities are presented in the best condition possible with available resources.
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Anzac Day Services are being held in Warren and Collie. Public attendance has always been good and I look forward to catching up with people. I acknowledge\n the great service provided by the past and currently serving Defence Force Members to this nation.
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It would also seem as though the long dry spell will continue well past the weekend. However with cotton picking coming to an end most landholders and\n townspeople would really welcome some serious rain to get crops in the ground and pastures growing.
Village Enhancement Plans have been the subject of public information sessions in Nevertire and Collie this week. These plans, developed by Council as\n part of our Draft Budget for 2018/19 outline affordable improvements, which Council hopes will be endorsed by each community. As a consequence, a sense\n of ownership and therefore co-operation should see maximum benefit from the investment of public money.
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Features of the plans include the general beautification and enhancement across the villages, the sealing of some streets to minimise dust issues, while\n also reducing Council’s ongoing maintenance costs. Beautification initiatives will be more successful if each community is prepared to help with maintenance\n and watering of trees etc.
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It needs pointing out that such improvements have only been possible due to Council being able to establish a sound financial position over a number of\n years.
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Anzac Day is fast approaching with the program in the same format as previous years. The Dawn Service will be held at the Cenotaph in Macquarie Park at\n 6.00 am. The Anzac March will commence at 10.50 am from in front of the Warren Services Club making its way to the Cenotaph for the 11.00 am Commemorative\n Service. A free sausage sizzle provided by the Warren Services Club will follow the 11.00 am service.
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