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MUNCaGre IfoNr oDur oIw nM comAmTunTityERS
The Latest Local news, updates and announcements
Successful Crackin' Christmas Carnival -“The Christmas Party Mungindi needed,” p13
© Anna Harrison W H A T ' S I N S I D E
Farewell Councillor Sue Price OAM, p04 Local Businesses Christmas Trading Hours, p17-22 Thank you from the Trindall’s, p15 Thank you for Shopping Locally - From the Mungindi Community Store, p16 02 Level 2 Water Restrictions NOW In Place For Mungindi
03 Farewell Councillor Sue Price OAM S
05 COUNCIL SERVICES AND FACILITIES OPERATIONAL HOURS – CHRISTMAS PERIOD T N
08 PARKING IN MOREE CBD E T
09 LACK OF INFLOW FORCES ST GEORGE RESIDENTS TO MOVE TO LEVEL 3 WATER RESTRICTIONS N O 10 ST GEORGE TEMPORARY LIBRARY FULLY ACCESSIBLE C
11 NEW-LOOK COPETON DAM NORTHERN FORESHORE RE-OPENS FOR CHRISTMAS F O 12 $7.3 MILLION TO DEVELOP A ‘UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE’ FOR BULL BREEDERS E
13 Successful Crackin' Christmas Carnival -“The Christmas Party Mungindi needed,” L B
15 Thank you from the Trindall’s A T
16 Thank you for Shopping Locally - From the Mungindi Community Store
17 Christmas Trading Hours: Mungindi Community Store
18 Merry Christmas from Mungindi Fishing Club | Christmas Trading Hours: Op Shop
19 Christmas Trading Hours: Servo | Mungindi Freight
21 Christmas Trading Hours: Mungindi Tyre & Battery | Mungindi Mechanical
23 MPSC - Application for Temporary Workers' Accommodation Facility Moree Gateway
24 MPSC - Public donations Jan- March
25 BSC - Council December Meeting Update
28 St. Joseph's Newsletter
32 St. Joseph's Position Vacant - Mungindi Grounds Person
33 Dick Ferguson returns for Mungindi Christmas Service 2020
Weemelah CWA | AGM
35 Get Involved
36 Community Calendar
37 Mungindi Businesses
39 Happy Holiday! Message from the editor
1
Mungindi Matters Issue 030 21 December 2020
FAREWELL COUNCILLOR SUE PRICE OAM
Thursday, 10 December 2020
Photograph: Councillors at Mrs Sue Price’s last Council meeting.
After just over 12 years around the Council table, Councillor Sue Price OAM formally resigned from her position and attended her last meeting of Moree Plains Shire Council today.
The decision to step down from Council stems from Mrs Price relocating earlier this year to Toowoomba to be closer to her children and grandchildren.
General Manager, Mr Lester Rodgers has described Mrs Price a tremendous asset to the Moree Plains Shire community, “Councillor Price will be sorely missed throughout the community”.
“During Mrs Price’s time as a Councillor, she fercely advocated for the Mungindi community and was an active member of multiple internal council committees, advisory committees, 355 committees and external committees concerned with regional development, the Inland Rail and rural roads”, said Mr Rodgers.
Since her election to Council, Mrs Price served as Deputy Mayor and held the position until 2016.Over her 12 years with Council, Mrs Price was a part of 13 committees Mungindi Matters Issue 030 21 December 2020 including:
• Council Committee of the Whole • Mungindi Showground & Racecourse • General Manager’s Performance Review Committee Committee • Mungindi Youth Council • Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre Ltd Board • Weemelah Public Hall Management • Mungindi Crime Prevention Committee Committee • Road Network Consultative Group • Treasurer of Arts North West • Mungindi Aged Care Committee
Mrs Price also represented the broader Moree Plains community and over her tenure as a Councillor, chaired the Melbourne to Brisbane Inland Rail Alliance, chaired the Australian Rural Roads Group and was a board member of Regional Development Australia – Northern Inland.
In May 2019, Mrs Price was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her services to rural and regional NSW and announced as the recipient of the 2019 Minister’s Award for Women in Local Government as an Elected Representative from a Rural or Regional Council.
Moree Plains Shire Council Mayor, Katrina Humphries stood for local government ofce in the same year, “Sue and I came into Moree Plains Shire Council together in 2008”, said Mayor Humphries.
“Sue has been a wonderful Deputy Mayor and a fabulous representative for not only Mungindi but the whole of the shire. Sue is loyal, dignifed and gracious.
“Sue gave everything possible to the progress of the Inland Rail and I would not be able to imagine the number of kilometres she has travelled over the years to beneft us all.
“Sue will be missed very much by our community and also by all the other people across the North West she has helped over the years.
“On behalf of the people of the Moree Plains and beyond we thank Sue so much. We wish Sue and Glenn all the very best for their future; they will always have a place in our hearts”, concluded Mayor Humphries.
Mrs Price concluded her responsibilities as Councillor today at her fnal council meeting.
In relation to the vacancy created by Councillor Price’s resignation, Council today resolved to apply to the Minister for Local Government to provide an order that this Mungindi Matters Issue 030 21 December 2020 vacancy not be flled prior to next year’s elections in September, given that Cr Price’s resignation has taken place within 18 months of such elections. This will dispense with the need to convene a by-election.
Source: Moree Plains Shire Council [email protected]
COUNCIL SERVICES AND FACILITIES OPERATIONAL HOURS – CHRISTMAS PERIOD
Friday, 18 December 2020
Moree Plains Shire Council wishes to advise all residents of the following changes to services and facilities during the Christmas period beginning Friday 25 December 2020 until Monday 4 January 2021.
Please read the following information carefully as each service and facility has diferent hours of operation:
Unless otherwise set out below, Council’s services and facilities (including our Customer Service Centre in Moree) will operate as usual until 5.00 pm Thursday 24 December 2020.
From Friday 25 December 2020, services will be closed and resume from Monday 4 January 2021.
You can continue to contact Council 24 hours a day on (02) 6757 3222 for our after hours telephone service, including on public holidays; we will continue to respond to emergency matters during our shut down period. Venues including hospitality venues, retail and places of worship:
WASTE SERVICES
Kerbside Garbage, Recycling and Organics Collection
Residents in Mungindi and Moree who have kerbside collection on a Friday are encouraged to put their bins out the night before (Christmas eve, Thursday 24 December) as collection will occur up to two hours earlier than usual on Christmas day. All other kerbside collections will operate as normal.
Residents are reminded to correctly dispose of food scraps, recycling and e-waste over the Christmas period. For more information, download the MPSC WASTE App or contact the Waste Department on 6757 3222.
Landfll (Biniguy, Boggabilla, Boomi, Garah, Mungindi, Terry Hie Hie and Moree Waste Mungindi Matters Issue 030 21 December 2020
Management Facility)
DATE MOREE LANDFILL VILLAGES LANDFILL OPENING HOURS OPENING HOURS Friday 25th December 2020 Closed All landflls closed Christmas Day – Public Holiday Saturday 26th December 2020 Open All landflls closed Boxing Day 9.00am – 1.00pm Mungindi - 9am - 11am Open Sunday 27th December 2020 Biniguy & Garah – 10am - 12pm 7.15am – 4.15pm Boomi & Pallamallawa – 1pm – 4pm Monday 28th December 2020 Open All landflls closed Boxing Day Public Holiday 9.00am – 1.00pm Open Mungindi – 3pm – 4.30pm Tuesday 29th December 2020 7.15am – 4.15pm Boggabilla – 1pm - 4pm Mungindi – 8am – 9.30am Open Wednesday 30th December 2020 Boomi & Biniguy – 10am - 12pm 7.15am – 4.15pm Garah & Pallamallawa – 1pm – 4pm Open Thursday 31st December 2020 Mungindi – 8am – 9.30am 7.15am – 4.15pm Friday 1st January 2021 Closed All landflls closed New Year’s Day public holiday All other opening hours as normal
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Gwydir Day Care and Preschool
Gwydir Day Care and Preschool will be closed from 5.45pm on Wednesday 23 December 2020 and reopen on at Monday 11 January 2021.
Bank Art Museum Moree
The Bank Art Museum Moree will be closed from 2pm on Thursday 24 December 2020 and reopen on Monday 4 January 2021.
Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre
The Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre will be closed from 5pm on Thursday 24 December 2020 and reopen on Saturday 26 December 2020 and operate on public holiday trading hours (8.00am-6.00pm) on:
• Saturday 26 December 2020 • Sunday 27 December 2020 • Monday 28 December 2020 • Friday 1 January 2021 Mungindi Matters Issue 030 21 December 2020
Tourism Moree
Tourism Moree will be closed from 3.00pm on Thursday 24 December 2020 and reopen on Monday 28 December 2020 from 9.00am to 1.00pm.
Moree Regional Airport
Moree Regional Airport will operate as usual.
Library Services
The Moree Community Library will be closed from 5pm Thursday 24 December 2020 and reopen at 10am Monday 4 January 2021.
The Mungindi Library will be closed from 4pm Thursday 24 December 2020 and reopen at 9.30am Monday 4 January 2021.
Water Filling Station, Moree Depot, Tycannah Street
Council’s Depot, including the Water Filling Station, will be closed from Friday 25 December 2020 until Monday 4 January 2021.
Ranger Services
Please contact our after hours service on (02) 6757 3222 to access Ranger Services or the Moree Pound from Friday 25 December 2020 until Monday 4 January 2021.
For any enquiries, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (02) 6757 3222.
Source: Moree Plains Shire Council | Written: Harries Coutts [email protected]
Mungindi Matters Issue 030 21 December 2020
PARKING IN MOREE CBD
Saturday, 12 December 2020
As residents fock to Moree’s CBD to fnish of last minute Christmas shopping they are provided with a gentle reminder to obey parking signs including timed parking, loading zones and disabled parking areas.
The infux of illegal and long-stay parking in timed parking zones throughout Moree’s CBD and surrounding areas has forced parking inspectors to patrol the area closely and monitor and enforce parking restrictions.
Council’s Director of Planning and Community Development Mr Angus Witherby explained that there were a number of reasons why parking needs to comply with the signs.
“During this busy Christmas period it is a matter of courtesy and fairness to our local business owners to adhere to parking signs. We need to ensure loading zones are reserved for businesses to unload stock and timed parking is obeyed so customers can easily park and enter stores,” Mr Witherby said.
“Our inspectors have encounter vehicles parked across white guide lines, parking parallel in 45 and 60-degree angle parking, cars stopping in bus zones, as well as drivers ignoring ‘No Parking’, ‘No Stopping’, disabled parking and loading zone areas.
“Inspectors will be monitoring the CBD and are authorized to issue cautions, followed by penalty infringement notices to repeat ofenders or where the parking is hazardous,” warned Mr Witherby.
Residents are also advised that no leniency will be shown towards drivers obeying parking signs around school zones or in disabled parking areas.
To fnd out more about parking ofences, fnes, road rules or to read Council’s Compliance and Enforcement Policy visit the links below.
To review road rules: http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/safety-rules/index.html
To fnd out about ofences and fnes: http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/safety-rules/ofences- penalties/index.html
To read Council’s Compliance and Enforcement Policy: https://www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au/ publications-documents/submissions-exhibitions/1476-compliance-and-enforcement-policy/fle
Source: Moree Plains Shire Council [email protected] Mungindi Matters Issue 030 21 December 2020
ACK OF INFLOW FORCES ST GEORGE RESIDENTS TO MOVE TO L LEVEL 3 WATER RESTRICTIONS Tuesday, 15 December 2020
St George residents will be forced to move to move to Level 3 water restrictions from Monday 28th December following a hot and dry November which saw minimal water fow into the Balonne River.
Level 3 restrictions begin when Council’s remaining water allocation falls below 1000ML and Mayor Samantha O’Toole said based on historical data that would occur by the end of the month.
“Both evaporation and seepage and usage levels were above average last month which has very much forced Council’s hand,” she said.
“In keeping with our policy residents Level 3 means resident will only be able to water on set days for two hours in the evening from then.”
Cr O’Toole said residents were requested to use the town’s water carefully, and employ all possible water saving techniques as excessive consumption could lead to a further tightening of restrictions.
She said Council staf would be monitoring compliance with the restrictions and random patrols were planned over the Christmas and New year period.
No warning will be issued at level 3 and 4 restrictions level and Cr O’Toole said anyone caught doing the wrong thing would receive an infringement notice and a fne.
“Council does not want to fne residents and only those who are not obeying the rules will face a fnancial hit, which I trust will be incentive enough for people to obey the restrictions,” she said.
Restrictions also apply to schools, caravan parks and other businesses. Reduced watering also occurs in accordance with Council’s parks and gardens program.
More information can be found on Council’s website at https://www.balonne.qld.gov.au/ community/environment-water-and-waste/st-george-water-restrictions
Source: Balonne Shire Council | Written: Nigel Tapp
[email protected] Mungindi Matters Issue 030 21 December 2020
ST GEORGE TEMPORARY LIBRARY FULLY ACCESSIBLE
Friday, 11 December 2020
The Balonne Shire Council’s temporary St George Library, at 14 Henry Street, has had fully compliant disability access installed.
Mayor Samantha O’Toole said installing a ramp Photograph: Library Disability Ramp was another way of ensuring the Library was accessible for all in the community.
“Many businesses in town have steps to access their operation and whilst a step of two may be nothing for a ft and able-bodied person, often steps, even minor ones, can prove a signifcant physical barrier for those in the community who are unable to climb stairs for various reasons,” she said.
“They may be elderly, have a medical issue, be wheelchair bound or operate a mobility scooter.”
Cr O’Toole said ramps also assisted carers who may be pushing a wheelchair, or even people with a pram.
“All public facilities, should, where practically possible, be fully compliant to allow access for all,” Cr O’Toole said.
The temporary library will be in place for the next 15-18 months while the new Library Hub is constructed next to the Shire’s administration centre.
Cr O’Toole encouraged those who had not checked out the new Library to pay a visit.
“It is airconditioned, and we have some comfy seats where you can come and gain some respite from the heat and read a book or have a chat with our friendly Library team members.”
Source: Balonne Shire Council | Written: Nigel Tapp
[email protected] Mungindi Matters Issue 030 21 December 2020
NEW-LOOK COPETON DAM NORTHERN FORESHORE RE-OPENS FOR CHRISTMAS
Monday, 7 December 2020
Photograph: Inverell RSM Fishing Club members Kenny Osborne, left, Peggy Osborne, and Don Russell with Copeton Dam Northern Foreshore Caretaker Tom Stapleton, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Mayor Paul Harmon inspect progress on the new clubhouse facility being built looking out over the dam last Friday.
CAMPERS spending this Christmas on the Northern Foreshore of Copeton Dam will be among the frst to experience the new viewing platforms, footpaths and amenities block, as work roars ahead on the $5.7 million tourism development.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall joined Inverell Shire Council Mayor Paul Harmon and Northern Foreshores caretaker Tom Stapleton last Friday to inspect progress on the project, which is due for completion early next year.
“In the space of 12 months Northern Foreshores Copeton Dam has transformed from a comfortable camping getaway to a luxury outdoor escape,” Mr Marshall said.
“The new amenities block, which is twice the size of the original, is equipped with showers, toilets and disabled access and is now ready for visitors to enjoy.
“In terms of recreational infrastructure, 2.4 kilometres of shared footpaths now snake their way around the park, connecting the camp ground to a number of new viewing platforms that overlook the dam.
“This week, the foating pontoon was installed beside the concrete boat ramp, enabling boaters to safely enter and exit boats from the water’s edge.
“The new Uniplan caretaker’s residence and kiosk looks fantastic and acts as a professional welcome mat as people drive through the front gate on the recently re-sealed road. Mungindi Matters Issue 030 21 December 2020
“As this a family venue trafc calming devices have been installed to ease the speed of vehicles around the park.”
Mr Marshall said over the next two months the fnal stages of the redevelopment would be completed.
“Progress on the communal hall is going well, with the frame for the 100-person venue taking shape,” he said.
“Children will be excited to know the next cab of the rank is the splash-pool, which will provide relief from Inverell’s notoriously hot summers.
“The new playground is still cordoned of, but once soft-fall is put down it to will be open.
“Every stage of this project has been designed to allow access for all, and I seriously think the tourism opportunities it presents will inject millions into the economy each year, helping it to rebuild after years of drought and the pandemic.”
Mayor Paul Harmon said the popular camping area was now ofcially back open to the public.
“Over the pandemic, the Northern Foreshore has been closed, allowing the myriad contractors uninterrupted access to the various building sites,” Cr Harmon said.
“This project has been a huge employer for the Inverell area, with between 50 and 55 people each day working on the diferent elements.
“Caretaker Tom is now taking bookings and Inverell is really looking forward to welcoming the return of visitors and economic beneft that they will deliver to local hospitality and retail operators.”
Source: Adam Marshall MP
$7.3 MILLION TO DEVELOP A ‘UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE’ FOR BULL BREEDERS
Thursday, 10 December 2020
Photo: Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall got up close and personal with some of the Brahman cattle at the University of New England this morning during the $7.3 million beef genetics research project announcement. Mungindi Matters Issue 030 21 December 2020
The NSW Government has today announced $7.3 million in funding for a strategic research project which would allow the State’s beef producers to, for the frst time, measure genetic value across diferent cattle breeds.
Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall made the announcement at the University of New England today and said the project would develop a ‘universal language’ for producers to compare and then select the best traits between Angus, Herefords, Shorthorns, Wagyus, Charolais and Brahman cattle.
“Never before have beef producers been able to compare growth rates, eye muscle area, female fertility and other traits across diferent cattle breeds,” Mr Marshall said.
“This $7.3 million multi-year research project will now allow buyers of performance-recorded breeding stock to objectively select across breeds using a common language, and help make genetic improvements at a faster rate.
“The research will underpin the development of multi-breed BREEDPLAN Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) in Australia for our six most common types of cattle.
“The research project is expected to deliver timely information to breeders enabling them to make more informed decisions to maximise the efciency of their herds and boost productivity.
“The NSW Government has worked closely with industry to identify this opportunity for advancement.
“Our producers already breed the best bulls, but this means we can make them even better, both in individual herds and the industry as a whole.”
Mr Marshall said the research herd would consist of 2000 animals and their ofspring across the six breeds, providing a comprehensive cross-section of cattle genes in the country.
“Over the next fve years more than 8,000 calves will be born, which means we…Read More
Source: Adam Marshall MP
Successful Crackin' Christmas Carnival - “The Christmas Party Mungindi needed,”
Saturday, 12 December 2020 it’s been quite the year for everyone but this little town has really been pushed to its limits. With border closures cutting the town in half and the devastating shop fres leaving us heartbroken. Mungindi Matters Issue 030 21 December 2020
This incredible event bought to us by National Drought and Flood agency, was just what we needed. And gee we know how to bring � in style � ... Merry Christmas from Mungindi!
Source: Anna Harrison - President of Mungindi Progress Association Thank you from the Trindall’s TO OUR VALUABLE CUSTOMERS,
There is no way to describe the last few months of our lives.
As you can imagine we have been shell-shocked and completely devastated. Now we are slowly coming to terms with our new reality, but we are not sure where we go from here.
We do not even know where to start to say Thank you for all that the Mungindi Community have done for us over the last few months. It is truly heart-warming, and we are very humbled by everyone’s graciousness.
The words “Thank You” seems nowhere near enough to express how profoundly grateful we are, but it is all we have at the moment so Thank You.
We thank you all for your Help, Love, Understanding, Assistance, Dinners, Messages, Shoulders to cry on and especially the Hugs.
We especially like to thank you the Mungindi Progress Association for the Go Fund Me Page. Without this our creditors would have gone without and we would have had no money to live on. We are grateful for everything you did for us personally and for Reds Meats.
We will come through this and we thank you for your patience while we decide what our future looks like.
Thank you again, we will never forget this communities’ ability to rally around their own. We are so blessed to have grown up and still live in such a wonderful community, you are all truly amazing.
WISHING YOU ALL A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A SAFE AND HAPPY NEW YEARS. HERE’S TO 2021!! LOVE RED & KEL
15 Thank you for Shopping Locally, FROM THE MUNDINGI COMMUNITY STORE
Hi all,
Firstly a massive thank you to the people of Mungindi and surrounding towns who have been shopping locally at the Community Store, the store is trading well and we really appreciate your support and commitment by shopping with us.
Christmas is just about here and we’d like to remind everybody of our revised trading hours over xmas and the new year which can be found in store and on our Facebook page.
If you haven’t picked up a ham for xmas yet we still have plenty in stock with a choice of hams from Maranoa Meats from St George, which are locally smoked by Paul and his team in St George and we have our Sunpork hams from our warehouse in Brisbane. Fresh and frozen chickens are also in stock and I’m trying to source cooked prawns for the xmas/new year period.
Remember to ask our friendly staff about products we don’t carry and we’ll do our best to try and get the product in for you. Also if you’d like bulk quantities of an item please let us know and we’ll be only too happy to organise this for you.
Finally from everyone here at the Mungindi Community Store we’d like to wish you all a safe and happy Xmas/New Year and look forward to seeing you next time you're in store.
MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
MEDIA RELEASE
PUBLIC EXHIBITION APPLICATION FOR TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION FACILITY MOREE GATEWAY
A development application to establish a temporary accommodation facility on vacant land at the Moree Gateway (in particular, 3 Harry Sullivan Avenue and 6-8 Perry James Crescent) has been received by Council for assessment. The facility will provide accommodation for workers involved with Phase 1 of the Narrabri to North Star section of the Inland Rail project which is being delivered by Trans4M Rail.
The development application and accompanying documents are currently on public exhibition and open for public comment until 5pm, Monday 1 February 2021.
These documents are available on Council’s website and can be viewed here: https://www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au/plan-develop-and-compliance/development-applications-on-exhibition
Any person may make a written submission in respect to the proposed development clearly stating their name and address and should the submission be an objection, the grounds must be specified.
Submissions are welcomed by 5pm, Monday 1 February 2021 and must be made to the General Manager by mail to:
The General Manager Moree Plains Shire Council PO Box 420 Moree NSW 2400
Alternatively, submissions can be lodged electronically by emailing [email protected] or by fax (02) 6752 3934.
For more information regarding privacy and personal information of submissions please visit: https://www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au/hot-topics/media-releases/1057-public-exhibition-of-non-designated-development- application - ENDS -
Date of release: 17 November 2020 Authorised by: Lester Rodgers General Manager For further information contact: Intermodal Office on 02 6757 3222
Moree Plains Shire Council Writer: Harriet Coutts Page 1 of 1 PO Box 420, MOREE NSW 2400 [email protected]
MEDIA RELEASE
BRING IN 2021 WITH A BANG! PUBLIC DONATIONS FUND CLOSING SOON
Kick 2021 off with a bang with financial assistance from Council for your community, sporting and educational group!
Community, sporting and educational groups across the Moree Plains are invited to secure funding from the Public Donations fund for the January – March quarter to help sponsor their next event, purchase new equipment or otherwise fund the provision of services for activities within the Shire.
A whopping $20,000 is up for grabs with two rounds of funding to be determined by Council in January 2021, with only one round of funding having been offered thus far this financial year following restrictions placed on face-to-face Council meetings earlier this year due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
Katrina Humphries, Moree Plains Shire Council’s Mayor highlighted that the public donations funding is an opportunity for groups within the Moree Plains Shire to secure sponsorship and support from Council.
“I encourage all groups throughout the Shire to apply for funding from the public donations pool”, said Mayor Humphries.
“Over the years we have helped sporting groups purchase new equipment, sponsored events such as Moree on a Plate, provided funding for scholarships, supported BAMM’s portrait prize competition, supported our elderly and sick, plus much more.
“With two rounds available for initiatives taking place throughout the first few months of next year, we are excited to see how and who we can continue to support in our community with this funding”, said Mayor Humphries.
Applicants must complete and submit a Public Donations Application Form no later than 5pm on Friday 18 December 2020 for Public Donations for the period from January to March 2021.
In accordance with Council’s Public Donations Policy, applications received after the deadline will not be considered until Council’s first meeting in April.
Applications will be presented to the Council at its meeting on 28 January 2021.
A copy of the Public Donations Application Form and the Council’s Public Donations Policy are available on Council’s website www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au.
- ENDS -
Date of release: 8 December 2020 Authorised by: Angus Witherby Director Planning and Community Development For further information contact: Community Development team on 02 6757 3222
Moree Plains Shire Council Page 1 of 1 PO Box 420, MOREE NSW 2400 [email protected] COUNCIL MEETING UPDATE
DECEMBER 2020
AND THE SPLASH PARK WHAT'S INSIDE THIS TENDER GOES TO... ISSUE:
Beau Corp awarded tender for Balonne Splash Park
Balonne Shire Council has awarded the $1.058 million tender for the hotly- Special pool entry rate anticipated Balonne Splash Park at the St George Pool to Beau Corp Aquatics and Construction. for disability card holders. Council will spend $1,058,948 of Federal and State grant funding for Beau Corp to build the Splash Park; the total amount of grants funding available for the project is $1.1 million. Bollon Skate Park location decided. The Brisbane-based firm, which specialises in building pools and water play systems, was among four companies which submitted a tender for design and construction of the project. Thallon Art Trail supported in principle. Beau Corp has built a number of splash parks for Local Governments in Queensland, including the Rockhampton Regional Council, Gladstone Regional Council, and Sunshine Coast Regional Council, where they are St George Library Hub is currently upgrading a popular aquatic centre. moving forward.
The company will commence design work on the Balonne Splash Park in early 2021, with construction to begin once final designs are approved by Council.
The Balonne Splash Park Project has been funded by the Australian Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, and the Queensland Government's COVID-19 Works For Queensland program. DISABILITY CARD TIME TO SKATE AT BOLLON'S DISCOUNT AT ST GEORGE POOL WALTER AUSTIN PARK Swimmers of the Balonne Shire Kids of the Bollon community can soon Mayor Samantha O'Toole said Council who hold a nationally-recognised look forward to skating and scooting at has ensured the children have continued disability concession card can Walter Austin Park, with Council input on the Bollon Skate Park project. now receive discounted entry to finalising the location of the town's the St George Pool, after Council skate park at this week's meeting. "The kids have been such a big part of voted unanimously to include this this process from day one, so to finally in the Shire's fees and charges A survey of Bollon residents have a location confirmed and be for swimming pools. determined the park's ultimate moving ahead to the design phase and location, with factors including natural then building a park that is truly theirs," Until now, Balonne Shire Council shade and access to amenities cited as she said. has simply not identified a major decision points for many. specific concession for swimmers "It is all very exciting - not only for the with a disability, and disability Concept designs for a small skate park kids, but for our Councillors and the concession card holders were to service the youth of Bollon had staff involved in this project," she said. charged the standard adult price recently been circulated among the Bollon community and more widely on "When the skate park is complete it will for pool entry and season passes Balonne Shire Council social media be a fantastic asset for Walter Austin at the St George Pool. platforms as part of ongoing Park and the families of Bollon." community consultation for the project The gap was brought to Council's An alternative location at the Bollon attention by a community member The entire project has been community Civic Centre was considered for the who made a query about the driven, sparked by a group of motivated skate park, but community members absence of a concession rate for students from Bollon State School. raised concerns about appropriate disability concession card shade and access to amenities. holders. In late 2019 the children pitched their idea to a Balonne Shire Council The Bollon Skate Park project has been From today, Balonne Shire meeting, where Councillors made a funded by the Australian Government's Council recognises disability commitment to building their dream Local Roads and Community concession card hodlers in the skate park. Infrastructure Program. same category as aged pension concession card holders with regard to St George Pool fees.
A disability or aged pension concession card holder can purchase a season pass for $110, with the option to include entry to the thermal spring pool (BATHS) at no extra cost.
Full rate casual entry fees remain, with adult entry costing $3.
In January 2020, Council became affiliated to the Companion Card program for access to the St George Pool; by recognising tthe Companion Card, admission fees for the card-holding support person are waived. SCULPTURE TRAIL A TREK THROUGH THALLON'S HISTORY
Balonne Shire Council has backed William St and a baker on the site of the Thallon Progress Association in the old bakery on Hill St. their quest to build a historical sculpture trail through the town, Thallon Progress Association is officially offering its in-principle applying for funding of the fettler support to the project in the sculptures under the Regional Arts December Council meeting. Development Fund Place Making Grant and Arts Queensland's Arts Council resolved that it would have Activate Grant Stream. no objections to the locations of the historical sculptures, provided With in-principle support from Thallon Progress Association Council, Thallon Progress TENDER AWARDED attains the appropriate permits for Association will be able to pursue road corridors and local laws. external finding to build their FOR ST GEORGE sculpture trail. LIBRARY HUB DESIGN Thallon Progress Association Architecture firm Fulton Trotter submitted a proposal for five Council will also work with Thallon has been awarded a $264,335 sculptures to be stood at historical Progress Association to develop a tender for design services under sites around the town, depicting life memorandum of understanding the St George Library Hub project. in yesteryear when Thallon was a regarding ownership of the public bustling railway hub. art. The firm will take the existing concept artwork, and provide Fittingly, two sculptures of fettlers The association is proposing detailed design and construction will stand by the railway line, on Council would own the sculptures the corner of William St and under the memorandum of drawings for the new 653m2 Railway St. understanding. Library Hub building, revitalised green space (courtyard), A blacksmith will stand on Hill St, Council currently has ownership of refurbished Cultural Centre adjacent to the site of Thallon's public art in St George and façade with foyer art gallery and original forge; a teacher will stand Dirranbandi, including sculptures in refurbished annexe with meeting next to the site of the former the River and Rail Precinct. rooms equipped with modern Bullamon Provisional School on technology.
Image: Motor train at Thallon Station on it's way to Warwick, December 1930. Council held a tender information session in late November to inform all interested parties on the project and procurrement process for the Library Hub, and answered a series of questions through its Vendor Panel.
In recent months Council has also appointed design and project management firm Complete Urban as the project manager for the Library Hub.
Construction on the Library Hub is scheduled to commence in April 2021.
PH: 02 6753 2327 EMAIL: [email protected]
Term 4 Week 4 Wednesday 4th November, 2020 GRADUATION MASS
PARISH SERVICES 6pm SATURDAY
LOW/ROC 14th November 28th November 5th December 19th December
MASS 7th November 21st November First Communion 12th December The staff and students at St Josephs wish Jinx, Isabelle and Sloane Mungindi Christmas Eve all the best for their future. 24th December 7pm Boomi & Garah Christmas Day 25th December
PO BOX 6, 72-74 BUCKNELL STREET, MUNGINDI NSW 2406 PHONE: 02 6753 2327 I FAX: 02 6753 2240 I EMAIL: [email protected]
www.stjosephsmungindi.catholic.edu.au
PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE
Advent Family Prayer God of Love, Your son, Jesus, is your greatest gift to us. He is a sign of your love. Help us walk in that love during the weeks of Advent, As we wait and prepare for his coming. We pray in the name of Jesus, our Saviour. - Author Unknown The third Sunday of Advent we are invited to reflect on the joy we have access to because of our faith in Jesus. One of the defining characteristics of Christ-followers is their joyful demeanour. Let’s not allow the struggles of this year to steal from the great joy we have because of Jesus. Philippians 4:4-5 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.”
Over this Advent, would you pray that the joy of the Lord would be evident in your heart and home? May God’s spirit transform the days leading up to Christmas into a time of holy anticipation; preparing our hearts, as we joyfully await the chance to celebrate the arrival of our king.
Dear Friends,
As we end our school year and reflect in the season of Advent we have the chance to reflect on how we performed – not just academically or in areas that can be measured (tests, enrolments) – but in the things that really matter. When did I show others respect? Am I satisfied that I have given my best? Did I support others in working towards their goals? How did I share the message of Jesus? Thank you to the students of St. Joseph’s for the contribution you have made to your own personal development and to the spirit of our school community. You have allowed us – your parents and teachers – to be proud of you over and over again. Those who take up the challenge of always doing your best, no matter what the task, are building the foun- dations of our community into the future. You provide us with moments of pride and joy! Congratulations, to our Grade 6 students who embark on the next stage in their education journey next year. During the year I have delighted in your resilience, perseverance and your enthusiasm to contribute to our school culture. In all that you do I sincerely hope you remember the lessons of faith, hope, love and learning that we have shared with you. We wish Isabelle Seigmeier, Jinx Durkin and Sloane Woodbridge well in their future endeavours. St Jo- seph’s Catholic Primary School will always be a part of them and they will always be a part of us. Thank you to our parents for firstly entrusting your children to us and allowing us to share in the most exciting years of their development. For being partners in your child’s education – valuing and supporting the work of those who work with your child and instilling in your child a love and passion for learning. Thank you to those who take the time to ex- press their support in a number of ways and for your commitment to your school – your children, your community. It is very much appreciated.
A final thank you to our staff who continually display dedication, commitment and passion for all that they do. For work- ing collaboratively together as a supportive, professional team continually working to grow and develop their skills in order to support and facilitate growth in each child. Thank you! Mrs. Orchin we will miss you! We wish you an incredibly beautiful maternity leave. May it be a thousand times more wonderful than you ever imagined it would be. You are such a wonderful colleague and friend who deserves an abso- lutely wonderful baby break.
This term we farewelled Ms. Marshall who came to our school on a trial basis after teaching for many years overseas. Her specific skill set is in that she speaks other languages that are unique to certain schools. We thank Ms. Marshall for her time at St. Joseph’s and wish her all the best for the future at her new school. Fortunately, we have several teachers who have expressed an interest in teaching at St. Joseph’s. Once the inter- views have been completed, parents will be informed via COMPASS. In the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season please take time to enjoy your holiday break and savour your time with family and friends. Reflect on the year that has passed and use what you have learnt from it to dream and imag- ine the possibilities of the coming year, new opportunities and new learning in 2021. On behalf of all the staff at St. Joseph’s, I wish you all a very safe, happy and holy Christmas and may God continue to hold you gently in the palm of his hand.
Deb Harrison
School Captains award Congratulations... 2020 PresentationConnor Hiles Night
Congratulations to all the students who received an award at our presentation night!
The staff at St Josephs wish our students and their families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Thankyou for an amazing year– we can’t wait to see you all in 2021!
Principal’s Award School Captains Congratulations… Award…. Eleanor and Sloane for showing ‘whatever Congratulations Connor we do, we do it well.’ Hiles
You Can Do It Academic Awards Congratulations… Congratulations… Hope & Jinx for organi- Pat & Angus
sation
Congratulations to our School Resumes School Leaders for 2021- Sunni Frizzell on Monday the and Sebastian McMil- 8th of February lan 2021!
Good Luck to the Seigmeiers, Harrisons, Durkins, Warby's , Carrigan, Sykes and the Mor- rows. Good luck to Mr and Mrs Orchin as they await the arrival of their baby. We hope 2021 is a great year for all of you.
Thankyou to Lachie Dennis and his son James for coming and helping us complete our NAIDOC Week art- work. School Website www.stjosephsmungindi.catholic.edu.au St Joseph’s Primary School Mungindi
Grounds Person
Permanent Part-tme – 14 hours per fortnight
Applicatons are invited for the above positon at St Joseph’s Primary School Mungindi. The positon commences as soon as possible.
Essental:
• Demonstrated high level interpersonal and verbal communicaton skills dealing with staf, students and the wider school community • Knowledge of and ability to implement all relevant work health and safety legislatve requirements to ensure safe and secure school environment • Able to work independently, with minimal supervision and perform work to a high and consistent standard • Knowledge suitable to the general maintenance of school buildings and care of the landscaping and grounds maintenance. • Highly motvated, well organised and fexible in approach to work • Respect, maintain and understand the importance of confdentality • Current drivers licence • Working with children check clearance
Desirable:
• Previous experience in a school setng
For further details about the positon contact Mrs Deb Harrison, Principal on 0427 103 126 or 02 6753 2327 or [email protected]
An ‘Applicaton for a General Employee Positon’ must be obtained from the Armidale Catholic Schools Ofce Website htp://arm.catholic.edu.au/employment/support-staf-applicaton/ applicatons not on the CSO ‘Applicaton for a General Employee Positon’ will not be accepted.
Email or post applicatons to The Principal, PO Box 6 Mungindi 2406 or email [email protected]
Applicatons must be received by 3pm Monday 21st December 2020. Preferred applicants are subject to employment screening. DICK FERGUSON RETURNS FOR MUNGINDI CHRISTMAS SERVICE 2020
The Reverend Dick and Michelle Ferguson are returning to undertake the Christmas Day service at Mungindi this year. Come and celebrate the birth of Jesus this Christmas Day on Sunday 25th December at 9 AM at Mungindi Anglican Church. 61/63 Bucknell Street Mungindi
More information call the church on 02 67 532164
WEEMELAH CWA
On Friday 4th December the Weemelah CWA met and held their Annual General Meeting and their Christmas lunch. All positions were filled. President – Libby McPhee Secretary – Shelly Toohey Treasurer – Helen Howse Vice President – Pam Waller Publicity & Cultural Officer – Libby McPhee Branch Patrons – Mhora Houston and Ann Farey Photo: Mhora Houston pinning the Secretary badge on Shelly Toohey Dec Branch Delegates - Dawn Toohey, Maureen 2021 Brosnan and Pam Waller Handicraft Officer – Pam Waller It was also a lovely time to sing International Officer – Shelly Toohey happy birthday to our dear
The branch is taking a break until our next member Mhora Houston. Dawn meeting which is scheduled for Friday 5th Toohey made Mhora a lovely February 2021. cake.
33 CWA Community Spirit Award
Each year the branch provides a community spirit award to ST Joseph’s, Mungindi Central and Boomi Central Schools. This award is for a year 6 student who has displayed a sense of community spirit within their school. The branch was delighted to be offering this award this year as it has been a particularly difficult year for education. Good luck to all students and Congratulations to the winners.
ICPA- NSW & NBN Co
On Monday 30 November Libby McPhee on behalf of ICPA-NSW and NBN Co donated two laptop computers to the Mungindi Community Preschool. These computers belonged to NBN Co and had been refurbished ready for a new life. Many thanks to NBN Co for thinking of assisting education when upgrading their computers. It was a delight to meet with the Director of the Community Preschool – Photo: NBN computers to Lisa Boughton to handover the computers. Mungindi Community Preschool
ICPA Collarenebri-Mungindi Branch
The branch would like to wish the students of 2020 at the Collarenebri and Mungindi Central Schools and St Joseph’s all the best with the branch’s annual award for persistence and trying hard reward. We do hope 2021 is a successful year.
34 G e t I n v o l v e d Our own local e-newsletter
N E X T S U B M I S S I O N D U E D A T E C . O . B . 1 5 J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1
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AN INITIATIVE FOR KEEPING OUR COMMUNITY CONNECTED
35 UPCOMING EVENTS
2 5 D e c e m b e r - 9 a m D i c k F e r g u s o n r e t u r n s f o r M u n g i n d i C h r i s t m a s S e r v i c e @ M u n g i n d i A n g l i c a n C h u r c h
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36 MMUUNNGGIINNDDII BBUUSSIINNEESSSSEESS
Moree Plains Shire Council Locals for Locals
Moree Plains Shire Council LIBRARY/SHIRE OFFICE (Mungindi Office & Library) Mon-Fri 9.30am-4.30pm 02 6753 2389 (closed from 1pm-1.30pm) Moree Plains Shire Council (Depot) RUBBISH TIP HOURS 02 6753 2359 Monday, Wednesday, Thursday Mungindi Hot Pool 8am-9.30am 02 6753 2347 Tuesday 3pm-4.30pm Friday Closed Mungindi Swimming Pool Saturday & Sunday 9am-11am 02 6753 2347 MUNGINDI SWIMMING POOL COMPLEX Winter Hours : TBA Agriculture, Livestock & Real Estate Contractors
B&W Rural - 02 6705 7000 Christiansen's Earthmoving - 0427 476 025 Big N - 02 6753 2631 Craig Sykes - 0428 881 165 HPS Machinery Parts - 0459 532 222 Groundspray - 0407 109 295 IOR Rural (Previous: Agstop) - 0427 521 593 G & M Rossiter - 0409 274 372 JBS Australia (Feedlot) - 02 6753 7203 Harrison Farming - 0409 532 358 Nutrien Ag Solution - 02 6753 2200 Precision Aerial Spraying - 02 6753 2532 Namoi Cotton Gin - 02 6753 2145 Steve Ramsay - 02 6753 2363 Prosser Hutton - 02 6753 2066 Smith Transport - 02 6753 2062 Queensland Cotton Gin - 02 6753 2600 Van de Watt Contracting - 0459 122 803
37 Clubs and Hotels Food
Jolly Swagman Hotel Motel - 02 6753 2022 Shafay's Cafe & Bakery - 02 6753 2775 Mungindi Golf Club - 02 6753 2148 Community Store: 02 6753 2865. Two Mile Hotel - 02 6753 2051 Retail Health and Wellbeing Curly Lou's - 0427 178 747 Hunter New England Health - Mungindi Newsagency - 02 6753 2392 02 6705 6000 Luxe & Humble - 0400 350 410 Home and Community Care (HACC) - The Bespoke Botanical Co. - 0429 661 230 02 6753 2070 The Felt Flower Company - Mungindi Hospital Doctors Surgery - [email protected] 02 6705 6158 Mungindi Chemist - 02 6753 2770 Services and Trades Mungindi Hospital - 02 6705 6100 Mungindi Post Office - 02 6753 2009 Mungindi Hot Pool - 02 6753 2347 Mungindi Aboriginal Lands Council - Mungindi Swimming Pool - 02 6753 2347 02 6753 2113 Service Stations Mungindi Electrical - 0427 532 177 Mungindi Tyre and Battery - 02 6753 2144 Mungindi Servo (QLD) - 02 6753 2688 Mungindi Mechanical Repairs - 02 6753 290 Schools Mungindi Bus Service - 02 6753 2383 Mungindi Freight - 0423 314 010 Central School - 02 6753 2207 Mungindi Hydraulics & Spares - Central Preschool - 02 6753 2692 0417 426 500 St Joseph's School - 02 6753 2627 North West Plumbing – 0428 521 084 Community Preschool - 02 6753 2220 Paulsen Electrical - 0447 073 710 Regional Australia Bank - 02 6753 2400
38 HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
To our readers,
Thank you all for your continued support over the year! You all mean the world to me! I just want to wish you and your loved ones an amazing Holiday Season and hope 2021 is a year filled with prosperity, happiness, joy and love.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Your Editor
Anna Cheng
It's the season to spread joy and our gratitude