Regional Plan 2012 -2020 Bogan Shire Council Bourke Shire Council Brewarrina Shire Council Cobar Shire Council Coonamble Shire Council Dubbo City Council Gilgandra Shire Council Mid-Western Regional Council Narromine Shire Council Walgett Shire Council Warren Shire Council Warrumbungle Shire Council Wellington Shire Council

Regional Development Australia - Orana NSW Level 1, Suite 4, 47-59 Wingewarra Street PO Box 1357 | Dubbo NSW 2830 Ph: 1800 851 488 | 02 6885 1488 | Fax: 02 6885 1468 www.rdaorana.org.au [email protected] ABN: 28 264 534 206

Cover Imagery Courtesy MRTI, David Malin & David Kirkland Coonabarabran, Wellington Shire Council Silo - Dunedoo Courtesy - Graphical Constructions 5

Contents

7 Executive Summary 11 Vision 11 Mission 11 Key Goals and Priorities 12 Economic Goals 14 Social Goals 15 Environmental Goals 16 Integration and Engagement Goals

20 Introduction 20 The RDAOrana Committee in 2012 21 Organisational Structure 21 LGA’s 22 Roles & Responsibilities of RDA - Orana 22 The RDA Orana Charter and Government Priorities 24 Purpose of the Regional Plan 25 Regional Planning Process Overview 26 Consultation to Develop and Update the Regional Plan

29 The Orana Region 29 Geographic Profile 32 The Demographic Profile 34 The Economic Profile 36 The Environmental Profile 41 Education and Skills Profile 45 Health Profile

48 Strategic Framework 48 Strengths of the Orana Region 51 Weaknesses/Challenges in the Orana Region 54 Opportunities in the Orana Region 59 Recent Issues/Developments which have Impacted on the Orana Region 60 Forecast Issues/Developments in the next 2-3 Years which are likely to impact on the Orana Region

62 Action Plan 69 Annexes

Regional Plan 2012 -2020 VisionA diverse region with unlimited opportunity to achieve your dreams.

MissionTo act as a strong conduit to support, promote and disseminate information, and work in partnership with our community, local government and other stakeholders to ensure the long term, innovative and sustainable development of the Orana region.

Clock Tower - Dubbo Courtesy Dubbo City Council 7

Executive Summary

The Orana region is defined by its size and diversity and the importance it plays in the economic and social fabric of New Vision South Wales and Australia. While distance presents challenges, the vast open spaces provide the people of Orana with lifestyle, business and employment opportunities in agriculture, mining and service industries such as health and education with increasing opportunity around alternative energy production, carbon farming and the digital economy with the roll out of the NBN to the region from October 2012.

Regional Development Australia Orana NSW is one of 55 organisations established across Australia as a partnership between Australian, State and Local Governments to strengthen John Walkom regional communities. RDA Orana comprises a Committee of twelve people appointed by the Minister who lead RDA Orana’s Mission Chair 30th September 2012 strategic efforts in economic development, social inclusion and the environment.

Covering as it does, a large geographic area, approximately 25% of the land mass of NSW, it naturally follows that such a large region would have enormous diversity in geography, resources, agricultural and industrial production, employment opportunity and culture. While some parts of the region are thriving and even growing at barely sustainable rates, others face the challenge of achieving equal opportunity for all citizens due to issues of cultural or geographic disadvantage.

However, the Orana Region is undergoing great change and around that change there will be enormous opportunity. It is the dream of the RDA Orana committee that all our people will be able to take advantage of these opportunities through equal access to education, training and employment to achieve their dreams.

While there are skills shortages across the region and unmet opportunity for employment, there are still populations that experience higher than state average percentages of unemployment. These statistics are generally associated with social disadvantage and RDA Orana is committed to working with our stakeholders as they develop strategies for greater equality in employment outcomes.

The major production focus for Orana is still agriculture. Ten years of drought impacted severely on the rural communities in the

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region and farmers face a more water constrained future with the foreshadowed implementation of legislation to adopt the Murray Darling Basin Plan. Good rainfalls from 2009 until 2012 have driven a strong return to agricultural production across the region that includes wine growing in the east, and grain, cotton and livestock production across the North, West & South of the region. There is potential in Orana for greater value adding of agricultural production providing unrealised business opportunity.

Orana is experiencing unprecedented growth and development in mining with a variety of mining operations established or being expanded across the region. These include coal mining in the east, copper and silver in the west, rare earth & gold near Dubbo and massive expansion of coal mining around Mudgee & Gulgong areas.

Associated with agriculture and mining, the inadequacies of transport infrastructure across the region are thrown into sharp relief. Strong production in the region can only translate to economic benefit when agricultural and mining products can be efficiently and cost effectively transported to markets and through ports. Continued development of the region is heavily reliant on transport infrastructure and its significant improvement in the near future. RDA Orana will continue to have open dialogue with both Australian and State governments on these issues.

The Carbon Tax that has put a price on carbon from 1st July 2012, provides potential for alternative energy production and carbon farming initiatives across the region. Likewise the Mining Resources Rent Tax has the potential to provide development income to the region. It is a significant time for those with an entrepreneurial spirit in our region and one that comes with expanded business and employment opportunity.

The digital economy has the potential to transform the way we do business in Australia, how business, health and education are delivered especially in overcoming distance, isolation and disadvantage and it has the potential to shift some development activity from the capital cities to the regions. The digital economy will also allow for the evolution of potentially undiscovered business to evolve within the region. Orana is one of the first regions to receive the roll out of the National Broadband Network (NBN) from October 2012 and will be able to benefit from early opportunities this presents as well as the ongoing development Regional Snapshots Courtesy MRTI, Dubbo, Warren, Narromine & Coonamble Councils

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opportunities the stronger platform will provide for participation in the digital economy.

There are many employment opportunities in health with a natural focus on Dubbo as the centre for health services. Dubbo, the region’s hub needs significant investment to rebuild and up-grade its base hospital and ancillary health facilities. There are health employment opportunities across the region through a network of smaller hospitals, aged care facilities, Aboriginal health services and other health centres. Vast distances provide the region with challenges to health service delivery where doctor and health professional shortages exacerbate these challenges. The Royal Flying Doctor Service plays a key role in patient retrieval and transport and has recently established a mobile dental service for remote regions.

The RDA Orana Committee recognises the unique role of local government in a region such as ours. Local government is the largest employer and the major provider of services in many LGAs and often has to step in when the Commonwealth or State government cuts costs to a region. This is locally referred to cost shifting that places a burden on regional councils. RDA Orana works closely with our 13 local governments through several networks and has included a two page summary of each of our LGAs as attachments to this Regional Plan.

While Orana faces challenges, it also anticipates unprecedented opportunity around the recent structural changes to the Australian economy through the Mining Resources Rent Tax and the Carbon Price and with the return of good rainfall benefitting agriculture and the roll out of the NBN.

The RDA Orana Regional Plan is a living document that was first developed in 2010. It has undergone a more extensive revision in 2012 to take account of the dramatic changes and opportunities the region faces in coming years.

I am pleased to commend the Regional Development Australia Orana NSW Regional Plan and I am proud and pleased to commend the Orana region.

John Walkom Chair 30th September 2012.

Regional Plan 2012 -2020 Egret Park - Dubbo Courtesy Dubbo City Council 11

Vision A diverse region with unlimited opportunity to realise your dreams.

Mission To act as a strong conduit to disseminate information and work in partnership with our community, local government and other stakeholders to ensure the long term, innovative and sustainable development of the Orana region.

Key Goals and Priorities • Economic Goals • Social Goals • Environmental Goals • Integration and Engagement Goals 12

Key Goals and Priorities Economic Goals

1. Capitalise on the Region’s Strengths in Agriculture

1.1. Collaborate with agricultural industry organisations, producer groups, Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and others to capitalize on the region’s strengths in agriculture.

1.2. Support where possible innovation in sustainable farming systems in collaboration with the Carbon Farming Initiative, conservation farming groups, the Catchment Management Authorities, and Rural Industry R&D Corporations.

1.3. Communicate and participate in the national and regional dialogue in recognition that farmers and farmer organisations need to develop farming systems that: are more water and energy efficient; efficiently sequester carbon in soils and vegetation; and attract financial incentives for achieving greenhouse gas and other environmental improvements in a more water constrained future.

1.4. Work with Commonwealth, NSW State Governments, Local Government and other RDAs in NSW to identify improvements to transport infrastructure essential to the movement of agricultural produce to markets and achieve those key developments for Orana

1.5. Work with Commonwealth, NSW State Governments, Local Government and other RDAs in NSW to identify and achieve other infrastructure such as research facilities and weather radar to support regional farmers to improve farming practices.

2. Support new Mining and Related Industry Development

2.1. Support regional stakeholders to realise the regional opportunities for social and economic development and identify and resolve issues associated with the developments in the mining industry.

2.2. Collaborate with education and training institutions to develop training and employment pathways to the mining industry.

2.3. Engage with stakeholders that are endeavouring to improve the efficiency and resolve the competing needs of water supply to mining operations and their associated communities.

2.4. Support the upgrade of the Albert Priest channel and the replacement of the un- piped sections of that channel that is currently supplying water to Nyngan and Cobar communities and mines in those districts.

2.5. Work with Commonwealth, NSW State Governments, Local Government and other RDAs in NSW to identify and achieve other infrastructure such as research or training facilities, rail lines and weather radar to support regional mining developments.

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3. Improve Regional Transport Infrastructure and Services

3.1. Work with other RDAs in NSW, local government, Orana Regional Organisation of Councils (OROC), Transport for NSW and road, rail and air transport organisations to identify essential transport infrastructure upgrades to support economic and social development in regional NSW and the Orana region.

3.2. Ensure that Orana regional transport needs and priorities are reflected in the NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan being developed by the state government.

3.3. Promote the planning and development of transport projects and initiatives identified in planning forums within the region and beyond.

4. Promote the Potential of the Digital Economy as the Basis for Economic and Regional Development

4.1. Work with the Australian Government and NBN Co. to encourage uptake of the NBN from October 2012 by promoting the economic and social benefits of the digital economy to local government and communities in our region.

4.2. Offer workshops and forums to promote the economic and social benefits of the digital economy.

4.3. As a regional organisation, participate as fully as possible in the new opportunities presented with the roll out of the NBN in communications and collaboration with our partners and stakeholders.

5. Expand Tourism and Related Businesses

5.1. Work with Inland NSW Tourism, Destinations NSW, Tourism NSW, local government organisations, Dubbo Western Plains Zoo, Macquarie River Trails and other tourism industry organisations to promote and develop tourism in our region and promote the region as a unique tourist destination.

5.2. Work with relevant departments and agencies to develop a coordinated tourism development plan for the region.

5.3. Support development of new tourism products and destinations, that reflect the rich diversity and unique natural beauty of the region by focusing on cultural activities and a rural lifestyle, the environment, mining and cultural heritage in the region.

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Social Goals

1. Develop strategies to meet Skills Shortages and achieve full Employment across the region

1.1. RDA Orana will work collaboratively with key stakeholders in education, training and employment to support strategies to improve school retention, increase participation in post-secondary education and improve employment outcomes in the region.

1.2. Work closely with the DEEWR Regional Educations, Skills and Jobs Coordinator (RESJ) to support realisation of the priorities of the RESJ Regional Plan.

1.3. Support initiatives and participate in collaborative groups to achieve better skills development and employment outcome for disadvantaged groups across the region.

1.4. Work with stakeholders to develop stronger links between education and training and the needs of industry.

1.5. Work to achieve additional resources that might be required to achieve better outcomes in training and employment such as resources to support training for the mining industry, heavy transport, coal seam gas and/or agricultural industries.

2. Build a Coordinated, Effective Regional Health Service Delivery System

2.1. Support the Western NSW Local Health District, Aboriginal Medical Services, the Dubbo Plains and Outback Divisions of General Practice, state and federal government agencies to build a coordinated, effective regional health service delivery system that provides equal access to all our citizens.

2.2. Provide active support to key stakeholders who are endeavouring to fully redevelop Dubbo Base Hospital as a hub for all high level health services in the region- recognizing the major importance of this project and that current work is just stage one of an urgently required total upgrade to this major regional facility.

2.3. Support in-region tertiary training in all relevant aspects of health care in collaboration with the University of Sydney, Charles Sturt University and other education institutions as well as support initiatives to encourage medical professionals to relocate to remote regional centres.

2.4. Encourage accelerated engagement with the National Broadband Network to enable E-Health service delivery in remote regional hospitals and multi-purpose health centres.

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3. More Effective Delivery of Aboriginal Health, Education and Employment Services

3.1. Support providers of education, health and employment services for Aboriginal communities, Murdi Paaki Regional Enterprise corporation, Local Aboriginal Land Councils, local government organisations and others to promote more effective provision of services to our Aboriginal communities in health, education and employment services.

3.2. Work with key stakeholders to achieve more effective collaboration between service providers and mechanisms for local coordination of the planning and delivery of such services in remote communities with high Aboriginal populations.

3.3. With key stakeholders, promote mentoring and support for new businesses (particularly tourism related) by Aboriginal communities, groups and individuals.

3.4. Promote the Potential of the digital Economy as the Basis for stronger social inclusion through overcoming barriers of distance and inequality of access

4. Support for affordable and sustainable housing throughout the region in all towns and local communities

4.1. Work with local communities, government agencies and Industry in overcoming the shortage and affordability of housing in mining communities.

4.2. RDA Orana will work with key stakeholders in developing the region to further implement affordable and social housing in all regions and communities.

Environmental Goals 1. Facilitate and Support Development of Alternative Energy Generation Capacity

1.1. RDA Orana will work with existing and new electricity generators and local, state and federal government agencies to support and encourage the development of alternative energy generation in the region to realise environmental targets and business opportunities in Orana.

1.2. Where possible, and working with our partners and stakeholders, facilitate feasibility studies, community consultation and planning approval processes for proposed new developments utilising solar, wind, biomass and natural gas to drive new electricity generation facilities in the region.

1.3. Assist existing and new electricity generators to access funding programs and incentives for trialling and development of alternative electricity generation capacity.

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2. Support the environmental and economic opportunities to the region presented through the ‘Clean Energy Future Program and the Carbon Farming Initiative

2.1. Work with other NSW RDAs in the Clean Energy Future Program and the Carbon Farming Initiative.

2.2. Work with other NSW RDAs to promote the Carbon Farming Initiative for its environmental benefits and business opportunities in our region.

Integration and Engagement Goals

1. Enhanced Community Engagement and Consultation

1.1. RDA Orana is committed to developing strategic relationships with key stakeholders organisations and agencies that service Orana to:

• Ensure comprehensive knowledge within RDA Orana of what is driving development and change in the region; • As the basis of partnerships and collaboration on regional issues and joint projects.

2. Enhanced Whole of Government Approach

2.1 Government Departments, Organisations and Agencies that RDA Orana will work closely with will include:

• Department of Regional Australia, Local Government, Arts and Science; • Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR); • Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education • NSW Trade and Investment; • NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet; • The Orana Regional Organisation of Councils; • Thirteen local governments: Dubbo City and Wellington, Mid-Western, Gilgandra, Coonamble, Walgett, Narromine, Warren, Cobar, Bourke, Brewarrina, Bogan and Warrumbungle Shires; • Chambers of Commerce • NSW Department of Education and Communities; • Western Institute of TAFE; • Universities: Charles Sturt University, University of Sydney, University of NSW; • Other NSW RDAs especially Hunter, Northern Inland, Central West, Riverina, Central Coast and New England; • Central West and Western Catchment Management Authorities;

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3. Improved Regional Planning

3.1. RDA Orana will identify and consult the strategic plans of government departments, regional organisations that have an impact on the development of the Orana Region and reflect the goals and objectives of those plans in the RDA Orana Regional Plan. RDA Orana has included a two page summary from each local government area in its Regional Plan.

3.2. RDA Orana will work with stakeholders where opportunities present to engage in regional planning around specific areas of social or economic development or the environment.

Photos courtesy MRTI & Narromine Shire Council

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Introduction

Regional Development Australia is a partnership between Australian, state and territory and local governments to strengthen regional communities. In 2009, 55 Regional Development Australia organisations were established as a national network to grow and strengthen Australia’s regions.

Regional Development Australia Orana NSW is one of those organisations and it represents a region that covers an area of 25% of NSW. It is home to around 120,000 people and more than 1.25 million people visit the region each year to see the various attractions it has to offer. The regional economy is primarily based on a diverse range of agricultural production including cotton, grain cereal production, wool, sheep and beef meat production,

Mining has also featured in the region since European settlement began, but in the past ten years there has been considerable development around mining and mining will play an increasingly important role in the economic and social development of Orana.

The RDA Orana Committee in 2012 In February 2012, seven new Committee members were appointed, and five continuing Committee members were confirmed, in a joint announcement by the Minister for Regional Australia, Local Government, Arts and Sport, Simon Crean and the NSW Deputy Premier, Andrew Stoner. Committee members were selected from expressions of interest sought from the public. Members were appointed for either two, or four year terms by these Ministers.

The RDA Orana Committee meets every two months to: develop policy and plans; review KPI progress on relevant plans; monitor the operational budget; provide advice and support to the RDA Orana team.

Name Position Resides Background Appointed John Walkom Chair Dubbo Company Director, Community Services 2009 Belinda Colless Deputy Chair Brewarrina Economic Development Officer - Brewarrina 2009 Shire Council Louisa Kiely Secretary Goolma Director - Carbon Coalition 2009 Allan Smith Treasurer Dubbo Councillor, Dubbo City Council 2009 Finance & Risk Sub-Committee Kim Williams Committee Member Dubbo Businessperson 2009 Peter Shinton Committee Member Coonabarabran Mayor, Warrumbungle Shire 2011 Bill Burnheim Committee Member Coonamble Agri Business 2011 Peter Gibbs Committee Member Dubbo Aboriginal Educational & Employment Feb 2012 Finance & Risk Sub-Committee Initiatives Des Kennedy Committee Member Mudgee Mayor, MId-Western Regional Council Feb 2012 Stan Single Committee Member Dubbo NSW Police Service, Social Justice, Law & Feb 2012 Order Ian Stanford Committee Member Dubbo CEO Orana Education & Training Cooperative Feb 2012 Finance & Risk Sub-Committee Ltd Peter Yench Committee Member Cobar Local Government Feb 2012

Regional Plan 2012 -2020 Organisational Structure

FUNDING

Federal Government/ State Government Project Specific & Skilled Migration Program

RDA Orana Committee

CEO

Finance Officer Project Officer Skilled Migration Senior Administration Officer Officer

Administration Officer Trainee

LGA’s Bogan, Bourke, Brewarrina, Cobar, Coonamble, Dubbo, Gilgandra, Mid-Western, Narromine, Walgett, Warren, Warrumbungle and Wellington Councils 20

Roles & Responsibilities of RDA - Orana

RDA Orana NSW is an association under the Associations Incorporations Act (NSW) 1984 incorporated in July 2009. RDA Orana is a non-profit organisation led by a Committee appointed by both Australian and State government Ministers, comprising business, community and local government representatives.

RDA Orana is one of 55 RDA organisations in Australia and was established to represent the Orana region in Central and North Western NSW, an area of 25% of that state. RDA Orana’s region includes thirteen local government areas (LGAs) – Dubbo, Cobar, Bourke, Bogan, Warren, Narromine, Wellington, Gilgandra, Coonamble, Warrumbungle, Walgett, Brewarrina and Mid-Western Councils.

The RDA Orana Charter and Government Priorities RDA Orana will support the growth and development of the Orana region and focus on the economic, social and environmental issues affecting our community. Government priorities are reflected in RDA Orana’s charter. RDA Orana will be an important contributor to, and driver of: • Orana’s business growth plans and strategies, which will help support economic development, the creation of new jobs, skills development and business investment;

• Environmental solutions, which will support ongoing sustainability and the management of climate change (including the impact of drought, flood or bushfires); and

• Social inclusion strategies, which will bring together and support all members of the community.

In delivering our charter we will:

• Work with all sectors of the community, including women, young people, Indigenous Australians and people from a variety of cultural backgrounds.

• Consult and engage with our community, business, non-profit organisations and all three levels of government (and their relevant government departments & agencies);

• Articulate local priorities, identify and align resources, engage stakeholders and promote solutions;

• Support, promote and disseminate information on government policy initiatives for the benefit of our community;

• Attempt to reduce duplication and overlap in regional activities;

• Develop a strong understanding of federal, state and local government policies and initiatives, and mechanisms for our community to engage with us;

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• Take a leadership role in bringing together organisations to take advantage of government programs, policies and initiatives;

• Act as an effective conduit between governments and our community to ensure they are able to provide input to governments about the strengths and weaknesses of our region; and

• Work in partnership with other RDA Committees on projects and other activities where we have common interests and common boundaries.

A key role for RDA-Orana is to deliver information to regional communities, organisations and businesses about programs, services, grants and initiatives for regional development offered across all levels of government. It is the expectation of Australian and NSW governments that RDA-Orana will:

• Consult and engage with the communities and local government across the Orana region

• Contribute to informed regional planning

• Represent whole-of-government activities

• Promote government programs

• Facilitate community and economic development

In order to fulfil its Charter and Government and Regional priorities, RDA Orana has developed a Regional Plan. This Plan is updated annually and in 2012 has undergone a more extensive development process in order to reflect significant changes that are impacting on the region since the plan was developed in 2010 and to better reflect the strategic plans of key organisations of influence within the Region.

Supplementing the Regional Plan is an annual Business Plan that is an operational document which sets out the RDA Orana Committee’s operational plan for the year.

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Purpose of the Regional Plan

All RDA committees are required to develop and annually update a Regional Plan to articulate the RDA Orana Committee’s economic, social, educational and environmental vision for the region. In this way RDA Orana has established its direction over the short and longer term and set out its priorities to inform and engage with our stakeholders.

The Regional Plan is also the key reference document for the Committee as it monitors activities and direction and measures outcomes.

This RDA Orana Regional Plan is also aimed to inform all levels of government of the strategic direction of RDA Orana and the Orana region as the Plan:

• seeks to recognise government priorities

• outlines the strategic direction and priorities of other major organisations in our region; and

• demonstrates that RDA Orana understands the issues and development opportunities within our region.

The plan describes the region, its attributes, industry and employment base and key strengths and weaknesses.

The Regional Plan sets out an economic, environmental and social vision for the region initially from 2010, until 2020. It is reviewed and updated by RDA Orana, to reflect any changes in the region’s social, economic and physical environment.

Most importantly, the plan describes actions that will be taken to capitalise on opportunities to achieve the economic, social and environmental goals identified for the region.

It is intended that residents, community groups, business, service providers and government agencies will use the plan as a source of information on programs, initiatives, resources and opportunities to assist in forming partnerships to realize the vision for the Orana region.

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Regional Planning Process Overview

In June 2010, RDA Orana conducted a consultation process and developed a draft regional plan which reflected the outcomes of that consultation and which also took into account the existing strategic and operating plans of many local government, business and community organisations across the Orana region.

Following the completion of the first phase of the consultation process, a summary of consultation outcomes was produced and presented at two community meetings in late July, 2010:

1. A meeting and discussion forum of economic development officers from local government councils across the Orana region.

2. A meeting and discussion forum of the RDA committee.

Both meetings gave feedback and advice on interpretation of the consultation outcomes. A draft Regional Plan was then considered by the RDA Orana committee at a meeting in late August 2010.

The plan was completed and submitted to the Australian Government on Friday 27th August 2010. At a planning meeting of the RDA Orana committee on 16th May 2011, developments of relevance to the Orana Regional Plan over the past 12 months were considered, as were likely future developments. That meeting recommended some changes to the Regional Plan.

During the tenure of CEO Robyn McPherson from January until September 2012, and the commencement of seven new Committee Members in February, RDA Orana undertook a more extensive annual update of the Regional Plan to take into account significant changes across the region since the Plan was first written in 2010. This new RDA Orana Regional Plan 2012 to 2020 also reflects the changed focus and goals of a new group of people who have brought fresh insight and new vision to the organisation based on a new perspective of the Region.

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Consultation to Develop and Update the Regional Plan

Regional Development Australia-Orana recognises it is essential to ensure that its regional plan reflects the needs and opportunities of as many of the Orana regional residents, communities and organisations, as possible.

For development of the first Orana Regional Plan the following regional stakeholder groups and organisations were targeted for consultation prior to the development of the plan.

• All local government councils in the Orana region (and OROC, the peak regional group for local government in the region)

• Chambers of Commerce (or equivalent) in regional towns

• Rural industry organisations

• Mining industry organisations

• Community service organisations

• Finance institutions

• State and Australian Government agencies

• Indigenous organisations

• Environmental organisations

• Major business operators

• Major utility service providers

• Education and health service providers

• State and federal elected representatives

An information sheet about RDA Orana and its planning process and a short survey were developed, in consultation with the RDA Orana committee. This was emailed to 112 individuals representing 76 organisations from the above stakeholder list, in the period 25th June 2010 to 8th July 2010.

Respondents provided their opinions about the strengths and weaknesses in their parts of the Orana region; the opportunities they see for their area; the projects that they would like to see developed in the next 5 to 10 years; the current challenges for economic development, job creation and infrastructure and community services in their part of the Orana region.

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In addition to the above survey process, the author of this report met with the General Manager of the Dubbo City Development Corporation, attended a workshop of the Working Party for the Dubbo Economic Development Strategy, and participated in a workshop with the Economic Development Officers of all councils in the Orana region. The prime purposes of these direct consultations were to collect personal perspectives to supplement the survey process, and to take steps to ensure complementarity between the RDA regional planning process and other strategic planning processes that were underway around the region.

To update the Regional Plan in May 2011, a planning workshop was conducted by the RDA-Orana Committee in Nyngan on 16th May 2011. The committee considered actual developments over the past 12 months as well as forecast issues and developments of relevance to the Orana region over coming years, before agreeing on changes to the original Regional Plan.

In 2012, following the appointment of new CEO Robyn McPherson at the end of January and the commencement of seven new Committee Members in February, RDA Orana undertook a more extensive annual update of the Regional Plan to take into account significant changes across the region since the Plan was first written in 2010. This revised RDA Orana Regional Plan 2012 to 2020 also reflects the changed focus and goals of a new group of people who have brought fresh insight and new vision to the organisation based on a new perspective of the Region.

Because extensive regional consultation was the foundation of the RDA Orana Regional Plan in 2010, in 2012 the update focused on robust information and data in the regional plans of other key organisations, published research documents and other primary sources. A number of key documents were referenced in the update of the Regional Plan in 2012.

In addition, considerable effort went into identifying other strategic plans that set out goals and strategies to achieve development and improved services in Orana. These plans will now provide a set of annexures to the RDA Regional Plan.

Over the past 12 months RDA-Orana has hosted three community forums involving wide representation of local government, business and service provider organisations across the region. These were:

• Orana Region Infrastructure Summit (October 2011)

• Orana Education, Skills and Industry Forum (June 2012)

• Orana Workforce Collaboration Forum (July 2012)

Each of these forums identified priority issues, services and infrastructure needs across the region, and the reports arising from the forums were considered as part of the background research for this Regional Plan update.

Regional Plan 2012 -2020 Gold Mine - Cobar Courtesy Graphical Constructions 27

The Orana Region Geographic Profile

Bogan Shire Council Bourke Shire Council Brewarrina Shire Council Cobar Shire Council Coonamble Shire Council Dubbo City Council Gilgandra Shire Council Mid-Western Regional Council Narromine Shire Council Walgett Shire Council Warren Shire Council Warrumbungle Shire Council Wellington Shire Council

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Major Physical Features

The region measures approximately 500 kilometres from the undulating hilly western slopes of the Great Dividing Range in Warrumbungle, Mid-Western Regional and Wellington shires in the east, to the predominantly flat plains of Cobar and Bourke shires in the west; and approximately 400 kilometres from the Bogan and Macquarie river systems in the south, to the Queensland border in the north.

Other major river systems in the region are the Castlereagh, Barwon and Darling.

The Warrumbungle Mountains in the central east of the Orana region provide the greatest elevation relief (up to 1000m) in what is, overall, a relatively flat regional topography (200-400m).

Settlement Approximately 121,000 people live in the Orana region. Dubbo (approx. 42,000 people) is the largest urban centre in the region, with other major towns being Mudgee, Cobar, Coonabarabran, Wellington, Coonamble, Bourke, Warren, Walgett, Lightning Ridge, Narromine, Gilgandra, Nyngan and Brewarrina.

When it is considered that the Orana region provides services to residents and businesses beyond the Orana region boundaries, the total “catchment” of the Orana region is estimated at over 200,000 people.

Rural Landscape Courtesy Graphical Constructions

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Land Use - Agriculture Agriculture is the primary land use on approximately 85% of the Orana region that is recognised as one of Australia’s most productive farming regions. Agriculture is highly diversified across the region.

Dry land winter crops such as wheat, canola and grain legumes are the most widely grown crops, particularly through the highly productive plains areas in the central and northern parts of the region.

Irrigated viticulture and horticulture are found in the Mudgee, Wellington and Narromine areas. Extensive irrigated summer crops, predominantly cotton, are grown in the Narromine, Warren, Bourke, Brewarrina and Walgett areas. Beef cattle and sheep for meat and wool are grazed across the entire region. Land Use - Mining Mining in the region is significant and growing, with zinc, silver, lead and copper mined at Cobar, copper at Nyngan, opals at Lightning Ridge and coal at Mudgee. New coal, gold and rare earth mines are at advanced stages of planning in other parts of the Orana region and there has been significant exploration for coal seam gas in the northern section of the region.

“The region has well-established mining enterprises in Cobar (copper, zinc and silver) and Mudgee (coal), which are experiencing new investment based on the commodities boom. In addition, the New South Wales Department of Trade and Investment indicates that new prospects are being developed for high-value rare earth minerals near Dubbo. In the August quarter of 2011, the New South Wales Mineral Council noted the Northern, North West and Central West areas of New South Wales had the second highest number of people employed in the mining sector (9255), behind the Hunter (17 232). There are currently approximately 19 mines operating in the Orana region, and another 41 applications for new projects and extensions have been submitted, which would take the total of mineral operations to around 60 projects. According to estimates, 55 000 new jobs are required in Australia by 2020 to maintain current mining production levels. There will be further opportunities to develop businesses and services, including education and training, which support the expanded mining sector in the Orana region.” Source: Regional Education, Skills and Jobs Plan, New South Wales Orana 2011 – 2012.

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Transport Major interstate highways intersect the Orana region including the Newell (north/south) and the Mitchell (east/west). Other Highways that cross the region are the Golden, Castlereagh, Oxley, Kamilaroi and Barrier highways. The Kidman Way is a major north/south transport route through the west of the region.

Major interstate north/ south and east/ west railway lines also intersect the region. Many other former branch railway lines servicing most regional towns are now unserviceable although the line from Coonamble to Dubbo is being upgraded to enable grain transport. A daily passenger rail service operates between Sydney and Dubbo with connecting bus services to some regional centres.

Extensive, daily commercial air services operate between Dubbo, Mudgee, Cobar and Sydney. Bourke, Walgett, Coonamble and Coonabarabran were formerly serviced by commercial air services but are not at present.

The Demographic Profile

A profile of the population and demographic features of the Orana region are shown inthe following Table.

The population in Orana has declined 2.2% over the past ten years. Ten Local Government Areas (LGAs), (Bogan, Bourke, Brewarrina, Cobar, Coonamble, Gilgandra, Narromine, Walgett, Warren, and Warrumbungle) have experienced population decline in that period; three LGAs, Dubbo City and Wellington and Mid-Western Shires have experienced growth.

It is noted that a recent study of population outlook for Dubbo City Council (KPMG 2012) found that projections for Dubbo’s population by 2036 range from 46670 to 56420. Factors driving this continued strong growth identified by the study were:

• New mining developments in the surrounding region; • Housing affordability relative to coastal and metropolitan areas • Recent and likely education and health infrastructure development

The other major population growth area in the region, Mid –Western Regional Council centred around Mudgee, is forecasting a growth from the current 23,000 people to approximately 33,160 by 2030 (Mid-Western Regional Council Local Services Assessment –Manidis Roberts 2012). Approximately 59 percent of this forecast growth is attributed to mining expansion.

Unemployment across the region is above state wide average as at the March quarter 2012, according to the DEEWR Small Area Labour Market Report (6.4% in Orana versus 5.2% for the State). Some LGAs in the west of the region have unemployment rates approximately double state average.

Overall, 15% of the region’s population is of indigenous heritage, compared to 2% state wide. Some LGAs in the west of the Orana region have much higher indigenous populations.

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2006 ABS data indicates that the Indigenous population in the Orana ESA had a higher unemployment rate (22.0%) and lower participation rate (55.3%) than the Indigenous indicators for New South Wales (19.4% and 56.5%, respectively) and Australia (15.6% and 56.8%).” Source: Regional Education, Skills and Jobs Plan, New South Wales Orana 2011 – 2012.

“Due to their level of skills and experience, teenagers in the full-time labour market can be particularly vulnerable during a labour market downturn. The teenage full-time unemployment rate is based on people who are aged 15 to 19 years and are looking for full-time employment. The DEEWR Labour Information Portal indicated that in December 2011, the teenage full- time unemployment rate in the Northern, North Western and Central West labour force region of New South Wales was 30.9 per cent, compared with the national level of 23.4 per cent.” Source: Regional Education, Skills and Jobs Plan, New South Wales Orana 2011 – 2012

The prospect of high teenage unemployment has probably contributed to population decline in recent years as young people have left the region to seek employment. However, improvements in agriculture and the growth in mining activity and associated service provision is expanding employment opportunities for young people and should make the region more attractive over the next five years to encourage those people to stay and/or return to the region.

Population Population Population Pop change Pop change Unemployed LGA/Region Indigenous 2001 2006 2011 2006-2011 2001-2006 March 2012 Bogan 3181 2998 3020 +0.1% -5.7% 14% 5.9% Bourke 3951 3249 3085 -5.0% -17.8% 30% 12.2% Brewarrina 2165 2044 1895 -7.3% -5.6% 59% 17.6% Cobar 5182 5146 4931 -4.2% -0.7% 13% 4.2% Coonamble 4836 4392 4274 -2.7% -9.2% 29% 7.2% Dubbo 38754 39618 40491 +2.2% +2.2% 14% 4.9% Gilgandra 4799 4711 4534 -3.8% -1.8% 12% 5.0% Mid-Western 22180 22074 23000 +4.2% -0.5% 4% 5.5% Narromine 7117 6826 6929 +1.5% -4.1% 19% 5.5% Walgett 8328 7273 6860 -5.7% -12.7% 28% 13.3% Warren 3320 2871 2877 +0.2% -13.5% 13% 6.2% Warrumbungle 10849 10236 9927 -3.0% -5.6% 9% 6.7% Wellington 8801 8482 8937 +5.4% -3.6% 20% 9.3% ORANA 123463 119920 120760 +0.7% -2.9% 15% 6.4% NSW 2% 5.2% Source: www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/[email protected]/DetailsPage

Consultation with regional local government organisations indicates a strong recovery in some rural industries such as dry land and irrigated cropping, associated with improved seasonal conditions since 2010 and continued mine development in some areas. This has created growth in employment and population in some sectors of the region and this is reflected in growth of population in seven of the region’s LGAs in the past five years.

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The Economic Profile

Transport Gross value of Orana regional product in 2008/09 was estimated at $5.6 billion and that had grown from $4.6 billion in 2005/06. The following table presents an overview of the contribution by different industries to this gross regional product value.

Industry % of GVP in Dubbo LGA % of GVP in Orana region % of GVP in NSW Ag, forestry, fishing 2.6 10.2 1.8 Mining 0.8 15.8 3.6 Manufacturing 7.2 5.3 10.2 Elect, gas, water, waste services 4.1 3.4 2.3 Construction 11.3 8.7 7.7 Wholesale trade 8.9 6.0 5.4 Retail trade 6.8 5.4 4.8 Accommodation, food services 3.1 3.0 2.9 Transport 6.3 4.8 6.2 Media, telecomm 2.1 1.2 4.8 Finance, insurance 5.6 3.2 16.6 Rental, real est. services 2.7 1.8 3.3 Prof, scientific, tech services 3.6 2.7 7.7 Admin services 2.5 1.8 3.4 Public admin 8.8 7.4 5.0 Education and training 6.8 6.5 4.4 Health care , social services 11.1 8.5 6.6 Arts and recreation services 1.4 1.2 1.1 Other services 4.2 3.2 2.1

Source: Dubbo Economic Development Strategy-Economic Profile. 2010.

Australia’s largest sheep abattoir operates in Dubbo and exports sheep meat and wool products to many parts of the world. Other meat processors operate at Nyngan and Binnaway and another is expected to recommence operations at Coonamble in the near future. A very small proportion of the region’s grain production is processed locally (at Narromine and Dubbo). Cotton is ginned at Bourke, Warren and Trangie and there is wine grape processing in the Mudgee area.

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Employment Labour market statistics (DEEWR March quarter 2012) indicate a total workforce across the Orana region of approximately 63,000. Unemployment rate at that time was 6.4% (individual shire unemployment rates varied from 4.2% to 17.6%). The following table indicates the contribution of different industries to employment in the region encompassing Orana, Central West and West.

Industry Orana region% of total employment NSW % of total employment Agriculture ,forestry, fishing 10.9 2.3 Mining 5.5 1.3 Manufacturing 6.3 7.8 Elect, gas, water, waste services 1.0 1.0 Construction 8.1 8.4 Wholesale trade 3.3 3.8 Retail trade 12.6 10.7 Accommodation and food services 7.0 7.1 Transport 4.2 5.3 Media and telecomm 0.9 2.4 Finance and insurance 0.9 5.0 Rental and real estate 0.8 1.7 Professional and tech 3.6 8.8 Admin 2.6 3.7 Public admin 6.9 6.0 Education and training 7.9 7.2 Health care and social services 12.2 11.8 Arts and rec 1.6 1.6 Other services 3.7 4.1

Source: ABS Labour Force Data-four quarter average May 2012.

Major changes in the distribution of employment in different industries in the Orana and Western Regions in the five years to May 2012 have been:

• Significant growth in employment in mining, retail trade and health/social services • Significant contraction in employment in agriculture

Agriculture accounts for up to 35% of employment in some Orana region LGAs. Above average rainfall since late 2010 and high storage levels in the region’s dams in 2011-2012, as well as positive movements in most rural commodity prices have significantly improved employment and business prospects in the agriculture and related sectors since 2011. Hence the earlier comment that employment in agriculture is known to have grown in some areas throughout 2012-much of this growth has been met from the backpacker population. Major changes in farming practices and associated technology have led to reductions in labour requirements on many farms throughout the region.

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The Environmental Profile

Comprehensive statistics for the physical environment of the Orana region can be obtained from the Central West Catchment Management Authority (www.cw.cma.nsw.gov.au) and the Western Catchment Management Authority (www.western.cma.nsw.gov.au ). An overview of key features of the Orana region physical environment follows.

Climate An indication of climatic features is gained from the following table of statistics for 3 towns in the east of the region (Mudgee, Wellington, Coonabarabran) and 3 towns in the west of the region (Cobar, Bourke and Walgett).

Mean Maximum Mean Minimum Mean annual Town Elevation (m) temp (monthly temp (monthly rainfall (ml) range)(degrees C) range)(degrees C) Mudgee 454 23 (14-31) 8 (1-16) 675 Wellington 390 23 (14-31) 11 (3-18) 619 Coonabarabran 505 24 (15-32) 7 (0-15) 750 Cobar 260 25 (16-34) 13 (5-21) 400 Walgett 133 27 (17-35) 13 (4-20) 477 Bourke 106 28 (18-36) 13 (5-21) 355

Forecasts from CSIRO scientific modelling of climate change in the region by 2050 (OEH June 2010) are:

• Maximum temperatures for autumn, winter and spring to increase by 2 to 3 degrees across the region,

• Maximum temperatures in summer to increase by 2 to 3 degrees in the west and 1.5 to 2 degrees in the east of the region,

• Minimum temperatures are forecast to increase by between 0.5 degrees in the south of the region and 2 degrees in the north,

• Summer rainfall is forecast to increase by 20-50% in the tablelands areas and by 10-20% in the west of the region,

• Winter rainfall is forecast to decrease by 10-20% in the region, and

• An increase in evaporation across most of the region is projected to create drier conditions throughout the year, although high intensity flood-producing rainfall events are likely to increase in frequency.

These predicted changes are within the ranges of climate changes forecast by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC Climate Change Synthesis Report:2007)

Regional Plan 2012 -2020 Grape Vines - Mudgee Courtesy MRTI 36

Water Supplies Urban, rural stock and domestic and industry water supplies across the region are dependent on a range of surface and groundwater resources.

The Macquarie and Cudgegong rivers are regulated systems with major dams at Windamere near Mudgee on the Cudgegong (368,000ML capacity) and Burrendong near Wellington on the Macquarie (1.2 million ML capacity). Other rivers in the region are unregulated and include the Bogan, Castlereagh, Barwon and Darling. All river systems in the region are part of the Murray Darling Basin.

The majority of the region’s urban areas are dependent on water supplies from these rivers, including Nyngan and Cobar that are dependent on water pumped from the Macquarie River near Warren and transported by open channel (the Albert Priest channel) to Nyngan and by pipeline to Cobar. Irrigation dependent cropping industries have developed in some parts of the region, particularly since the 1970’s. These include viticulture in the Mudgee area, vegetables in the Wellington/Dubbo/ Narromine/Bourke areas, cotton in the Narromine/Warren/ Walgett/Bourke and Brewarrina areas, citrus in the Bourke and Narromine areas. These industries have licenced entitlements to extract up to approximately 20% of average flows in the regulated sections of the region’s rivers.

Low storage levels and low river flows over the period 2001 to 2009 resulted in much reduced water access and extraction -such that cotton production in the lower Macquarie Valley declined by up to 80% over that period. Such changes in water availability had significant socio economic impacts in the region, leading to significant declines in population as noted in a previous section of this Plan. A recovery in both dryland and irrigated crop production has occurred in 2011-2012 with a major improvement in water storage levels following high rainfall and runoff across the region in late 2010 and again in early 2012.

Since the 1980’s, mining developments in the Mudgee, Nyngan and Cobar regions have required access to significant bulk water supplies-mainly sourced through purchase of regulated surface water licence entitlements from farmers.

Groundwater aquifers (localized alluvial and regional sub-artesian) are important for some urban water supplies, stock and domestic supplies and for some crop irrigation (mainly in the Narromine area). The Great Artesian Basin underlies a significant part of the northwest sector of the region and is accessed for stock and domestic and some town supplies (Lightning Ridge, Goodooga).

Water Sharing Plans and volumetric licencing extraction arrangements are in place for most surface water resources and some groundwater resources in the region. Sustainable water diversion limits have been investigated and specified for the Macquarie-Castlereagh and Barwon-Darling catchment areas as part of the draft Murray Darling Basin Plan released in mid-2012 (see www.mdba.gov.au/ draft-basin-plan/catchment/norther-basin). Already approximately 20% of surface water licence entitlements in the Macquarie and Darling irrigated cropping regions have been purchased by state and federal government “buy back” programs-designed to increase environmental flows in the Murray-Darling Basin. Based on the volumes of environmental water recovered to 30 September

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2011, the Draft Basin Plan is currently not recommending further reductions in the sustainable diversion limits in the Macquarie-Castlereagh catchments. The draft Plan proposes that a further 117 GL/year needs to be recovered to improve environmental flows in the Barwon –Darling Rivers.

Significant Environment and Conservation Issues for the Region The Orana region has a very strong, and increasingly valued Aboriginal cultural history. The Wiradjuri, Kawambarai, Weilwan, Wongaibon and Gamilaroi Aboriginal nations and language groups, in conjunction with organisations such as Local Aboriginal Land Councils and Catchment Management Authorities, are making significant progress in identifying and protecting aboriginal artefacts and sites of cultural significance across the region.

It is estimated that approximately 70% of the Orana region has been substantially cleared of the majority of its native vegetation. Various initiatives are attempting to ensure that there is effective conservation of all aspects of native biodiversity.

Goobang National Park in the south of the region and Warrumbungle and Coolah Tops National Parks in the east and north of the region are important areas of conservation, as are state forest and nature reserve areas across the region.

The Macquarie Marshes nature reserve in the centre of the region is a Ramsar recognized wetland of international significance.

Macquarie Marshes Courtesy Coonamble Shire Council

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Catchment Management Authorities (Central West and Western) and private landholders across the region are identifying and protecting many other areas of important remnant native vegetation and riparian areas under a range of voluntary conservation agreements. The Central West Catchment Management Authority has recently (August 2012) received State and Federal Government approval for a newly developed Central West Catchment Action Plan 2011-2021, which identifies priorities for improved management of soil, water, biodiversity and human capacity across the catchments of the Macquarie, Bogan and Castlereagh river systems and their associated communities (see Catchment Action Plan www.cw.cma.nsw.gov.au/AboutUs/2011). The Western Catchment Management Authority is undertaking a planning process through 2012 and is expected to finalise a new Catchment Action Plan by early 2013.

The NSW Government is currently (mid 2012) undertaking a review of regulations that underpin the Native Vegetation Act 2003. Recent consultation meetings across the Orana and other regions have highlighted concerns by many landholders about what are seen as undue restrictions on management of native vegetation under current regulatory processes-particularly in those areas extensively affected by invasive native scrub (including significant areas in the west of the Orana region).

Introduced weed species, feral animals (rabbits, foxes, feral pigs, cats and goats) and invasive native scrub are identified as major environmental threats by residents of the Orana region.

Ten of the 13 Local Government Councils in the Orana region participate with seven other Councils in the Central West region, in a collaborative approach to producing an annual “Regional State of the Environment Report”. The latest report, produced in 2011, identifies issues and trends and actions taken by Councils and communities in relation to:

• land degradation and contamination • erosion • salinity • air quality • industrial pollution • water quantity and quality (riparian and groundwater) • biodiversity • vegetation • aboriginal heritage • waste management

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, reducing energy consumption and costs, increased carbon sequestration in agricultural soils and agroforestry are seen as opportunities for positive environmental initiatives in the region.

As part of the Clean Energy Future Program of the Australian Government, the Carbon Farming Initiative (CFI) was initiated in 2011. Under the CFI, up to $1.7billion will be available to support farmers and land managers to develop and apply land management systems to reduce emissions LibraryLibrary - Dubbo - Dubbo and/or increase carbon storage in soils and vegetation (see www.climatechange.gov.au/ CourtesyCourtesy Dubbo Dubbo Tourism Council landsectormeasures).

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Education and Skills Profile Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Education in Orana

Most towns of 500 or more residents are serviced by several primary schools operated by both state and private providers and by state run high or central schools.

The Regional Education, Skills and Jobs Plan for the Orana Region 2011-2014 reports the following:

• There are 108 Primary and Secondary schools in the Orana region.

• In addition, Dubbo has two special schools: ‘Mian School’ for young people with emotional disturbances and behavioural disorders; and ‘Lincoln School’, a community care facility for male students situated within the Orana Juvenile Justice Centre.

• There are three distance education facilities based in Walgett, Bourke and Dubbo. The Dubbo facility provides a virtual selective high school service to Western NSW.

• There are currently (2012) 45 child care centres and 36 pre-schools in Orana.

LibraryLibrary - Dubbo - Dubbo CourtesyCourtesy Dubbo Dubbo Tourism Council

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Privately run high schools are found in five of the larger regional towns.

The Western Institute of TAFE has colleges in 13 towns in the Orana region and offers vocational courses through some regional schools as well.

Charles Sturt University (CSU) has a campus in Dubbo delivering degree level courses in nursing, education and community health, and the University of Sydney delivers some aspects of its medical courses through the School of Rural Health in Dubbo.

Proportions of the region’s population enrolled in various stages of education are shown in the following table:

Type of educational institution Dubbo Orana Region NSW Pre-school 1.9% 1.9% 1.7% Primary school-government 6.5% 6.8% 5.7% Primary school-private 3.8% 3.3% 2.6% Secondary school-Government 4.1% 5.0% 4.1% Secondary school-private 2.9% 1.6% 2.6% TAFE 2.6% 2.4% 2.5% University 1.8% 1.3% 3.6% Other education institutions 0.4% 0.3% 0.6%

Source: ABS 2007

The proportion of the region’s population with post school qualifications is significantly below state averages, as shown in the following table:

Dubbo Orana State % of population with a graduate degree or higher 10.0% 8.3% 16.5% % of population with any post school qualifications 35.2% 31.6% 40.7%

Source: ABS 2007

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Based on a comprehensive environmental scan and community consultation, the key education, skills and jobs challenges identified for the region in the Regional Education, Skills and Jobs NSW- Orana 2011-2014 plan include:

• Closing the Gap in all areas for Indigenous Australians

• increasing access to early child care education places and early intervention services for young people with identified disabilities

• dealing with the immediate and long-term impacts of national child care reforms on early childhood education stakeholders

• providing meaningful and engaging educational pathways for young people to reach Year 12 or equivalent

• providing local options and pathways to tertiary and further education for people to study and work in the region

• meeting the challenge of a labour market with high youth and Indigenous unemployment, skill shortage areas (particularly in the mining sector) and an ageing workforce.

The key goals of the Regional Education, Skills and Jobs Plan are as follows:

• Programs and projects which Close the Gap for Indigenous Australians are expanded, linked and celebrated.

• Early childhood education providers are supported to understand and have strategies in place to meet the immediate and longer term child care reform requirements.

• Meaningful and engaging educational pathways to assist young people to reach Year 12 or equivalent.

• Localised pathways to tertiary and further education are developed for young people while they are still in school, particularly through vocational education and training and school- based traineeships and apprenticeships.

• Employment outcomes for Indigenous, youth and older Australians are improved to meet current and future skills needs in the region.

Walgett, which is in the Orana region, is one of two communities in New South Wales identified as a remote service delivery (RSD) community. RSD is a commitment by governments to work with Indigenous communities to improve the delivery of services. The aim is to improve access to government services and facilities, raise the quality of those services, and better support Indigenous community governance and leadership. A formal local implementation plan has been negotiated with the Walgett Aboriginal community, identifying projects and priorities that the community would like addressed.

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Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) – Employer sponsored migration

One strategy for addressing skills shortages in the region is through the Australian Government’s Skilled Migration program. The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) allows Australian employers in regional and low population growth areas of Australia to recruit workers from overseas or who have temporary visas and are currently in Australia. The employer nominates the position and seeks recommendation from the Regional Certifying Body (RCB). The RCB advice is provided directly to DIAC and is a pre-requisite for approval of the employer’s nominated application. RDA Orana is an RCB in NSW.

Rules for the RSMS - Employer certification

• There is a need for a paid employee in the nominating business.

• The nominated position must be located in the Orana Region.

• The position is a skilled occupation and corresponds to an occupation specified by DIAC. This is an occupation that requires a diploma, trade certificate or degree qualification, or equivalent experience.

• The nominated employee has a minimum ‘competent’ English ability.

• The Position is full time and available for a minimum of 2 years as required by the visa.

• The Employer has attempted to fill the position using the local labour market.

• The position holder will be hired in accordance with Australian labour laws and industrial relations regulations, including being paid at the market rate.

• The business is actively and lawfully operating in regional Australia.

• RCB advice is obtained regarding the position.

• The nominated employee receives permanent residence status.

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Health Profile

The accessibility and quality of medical and para-medical services and infrastructure is one of the major issues of community concern in the Orana region. Part of this concern is explained when the demographic features of the region are considered. As outlined earlier in this document, the proportion of Indigenous people and aged people in the region are significantly higher than state averages. Both of these groups have higher health care needs.

The National Strategic Framework for Rural and Remote Health (2012) highlights that a large proportion of the Orana region (7 of the 13 LGAs in the region) is classified as remote or very remote and that in such regions the following general health statistics apply:

• Higher reported rates of high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity

• Higher death rates from chronic disease

• Higher prevalence of mental health problems

• Higher rates of alcohol abuse and smoking

• Poorer dental health

• Higher incidence of poor antenatal and post-natal health

Health services in the Orana region are coordinated or delivered as part of the Western NSW Local Health District (LHD)), which also incorporates the Central West region of the state. The Western NSW LHD “Future Directions for Rural Health” (2011) outlines the types and distribution of various health services and their utilisation across the region.

Most towns in the Orana region have hospitals or multi-purpose health centres. There are 24 hospitals/ multi -purpose health centres across the Orana region. In most of the smaller towns in the western and north western parts of the region, there has been a significant contraction of the services available in the local hospital (e.g. maternity, surgery) and many local residents are now required to travel three or more hours to a hospital in Dubbo to access these services, formerly available at their local hospital.

Attracting and retaining doctors and other medical professionals in smaller Orana region towns is a major challenge for government and the communities. Targeted resourcing of Aboriginal medical services in communities of high indigenous populations (e.g. in Bourke, Walgett, Brewarrina) has been an important initiative, as have programs such as the Rural and Remote Dental Clinic-a partnership between Brewarrina Shire Council and Griffith University.

Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services are located in Bourke, Brewarrina, Coonamble, Dubbo, Walgett and Wellington.

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Dubbo has comprehensive medical and para-medical services as well as one major public base hospital (150 beds) and a private hospital (50 beds). Plans and some funding ($79.8m) have been committed for a major upgrade of the Dubbo base hospital, to commence in 2013. The upgrade will provide a combination of new purpose built infrastructure and some refurbishment works for priority clinical services, including:

• New theatres, day only and extended day surgery beds • New maternity unit • Upgraded renal dialysis unit

Resident and visiting specialist medical services are available in Dubbo in most medical disciplines, although some concerns have been expressed about perceived reductions in access to some specialist services (e.g. oncology)-patients now requiring access to these specialist services have to travel an extra 2 hours to Orange. The Royal Flying Doctor Service operates from a base in Dubbo.

Private sector and community organisations, and some local government councils, have developed aged care facilities in most towns in the Orana region. Expanded facilities will continue to be demanded as evidenced by the significantly higher than state average proportion of aged people in the Orana region( 15.5 % of the Orana population aged over 65 years, compared to 9.8% state wide).

Dubbo is the key health services centre for the Orana region and beyond, servicing most of Western NSW, where people deal with isolation on a daily basis. The Royal Flying Doctor Service provides emergency retrieval services and takes health care out to people in the regions. Mostly though, residents of Orana with more serious and/or specialised health needs must travel into Dubbo for treatment and care. If people make their own way at their own expense to Dubbo, they are not going to want to travel on to Orange or Bathurst. In many cases if treatment is not available within Orana and/or in Dubbo, patients are as likely to travel on to Sydney rather than seek care in the Central West. One of the key needs identified is for affordable accommodation for families of patients from remote communities who come to Dubbo for treatment in hospital-particularly for maternity services.

Regional Plan 2012 -2020 Medical Officer Dr Elaine Powell lands at Hungerford NSW for an RFDS Image supplied by the RFDS SE Section – www.flyingdoctor.org.au : RFDS 46

Strategic Framework The following information has been substantially compiled from inputs gathered in the community consultation process outlined in the previous section, and from the RDA-Orana Committee planning meetings held in May 2011 and September 2012, prior to updating this Regional Plan.

Strengths of the Orana Region

Central/strategic location and iconic attractions The Orana region in general, and its primary service centre- Dubbo- in particular, are ideally located at the crossing points of major north/south and east/west transport routes. This is a strength for both business linkages and transport services as well as for tourism. A reasonably long list of iconic tourism and cultural assets adds to this central location to create a strong strategic advantage for the Orana region. These assets include:

• Warrumbungle Mountains; Macquarie Marshes; Macquarie, Barwon and Darling rivers

• Indigenous cultural sites and artefacts; outback landscape, heritage and culture; Back O’ Bourke Exhibition Centre

• Wellington Caves; Taronga Western Plains Zoo; Lightning Ridge opals; Mudgee district Wineries

Lifestyle and quality of life Many Orana region residents perceive the region as having excellent lifestyle and quality of life features. Clearly, this is primarily a subjective assessment, but is most likely influenced by factors such as housing affordability, relative absence of serious crime, accessibility of basic human services, climate, employment, and relative absence of time stressors. It is noted that some attempts at independent and semi-objective assessment of lifestyle (e.g. by Bankwest 2008) have actually rated some local government areas in the Orana region quite lowly on aggregate lifestyle scores.

Diverse and Productive agricultural sector Orana region agricultural industries have evolved over 160 years since first non-Indigenous settlement and initial dominance by

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extensive livestock grazing, to now being one of the most diverse and productive “food and fibre” bowls in Australia. Soils are regarded as highly fertile and the climate is generally favourable and rainfall is aseasonal, although highly variable. The sector was severely hampered by drought over the 2001-2009 period and changing market conditions for agricultural commodities have brought about some broad changes (less emphasis on wool production; increased emphasis on grain cropping).

Development of irrigated cropping in the region, particularly since the 1970’s, has stimulated diversification and intensification of farming systems in some parts of the region, although confidence in these sectors has been somewhat eroded by seasonal and government policy driven reductions in water availability.

A significant part of the diversification has been the development of large areas of vineyards and wine production in the Mudgee area and cotton production in the Narromine, Warren, Brewarrina, Walgett and Bourke areas.

Productivity growth and diversification have been driven by public and private investment in rural R, D & E and there are some excellent rural research facilities and expertise in the region including the NSW DPI Agricultural Research Institute at Trangie and the University of New South Wales research facility at Wellington.

Mining and mineral resources There is a relatively long history of mining in the Cobar region, which has seen strong development of employment, investment and cultural services in what was a small, remote rural town. Opal mining in the Lightning Ridge area has similarly stimulated development there, and this has been augmented by strong tourism business. More recent mine developments in the Nyngan and Mudgee areas have contributed strongly to employment and economic activity.

A number of new mining developments are at relatively advanced planning stages in the region. In the Mudgee area, 5 new coal mining projects are being planned with likely direct employment of an additional 1800 new jobs in the next four years. A consortium of NSW electricity generators has formed a joint venture to develop the Cobbora coal mine in the Dunedoo area east of Dubbo, with a proposed output of 20-30 million tonnes of coal per annum over an estimated 21 year mine life with 1700

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jobs sustained. Alkane Resources, an ASX listed company, has two mining developments in the late stages of planning in the region. One is a gold mine development at Tomingley, south of Narromine, which is expected to commence development in 2012/13 and the other is a rare earth (zirconia and other minerals) mine development at Toongi south of Dubbo. The Tomingley mine development has been recently approved to proceed and is expected to produce 50,000+ ounces of gold per annum over a 7 to 10 year mine life with 100 permanent jobs in mining operations.

Cobar Consolidated Resources commenced production at the Wonawinta silver mine south of Cobar in 2012. The mine is expected to produce over 25 million ounces of silver over a 10 year mine life with 60 to 80 ongoing jobs.

The employment and other economic impacts of mine development in the region are not just those that come directly from the mine development and operation. Businesses that supply services to mining companies, including drilling, survey, environmental management, construction, human resources and training-have already been established in the region. Many of the Orana region mines are relatively new developments with long forecast production “lives” and there is perceived to be major potential to develop and apply innovation in mining practices in these mines.

Alternative Energy There is currently new and significant investment in wind and solar energy production. These include 5 wind farm projects in the Mid-Western region and another in Wellington, with each comprising up to 400 wind turbines 180 metres in height. There are also other alternative energy projects which include a large solar farm near Narromine.

Other Strengths of the Orana Region In addition to the strengths of the region outlined above, a strategic planning workshop of the RDA-Orana Committee in September 2012, identified the following as other strengths of the Orana region:

• Strong connectivity of local government organisations across the region through the Orana Regional Organisation of Councils (OROC-see www.oroc.com.au/oroc-strategic-plan-2010- 2015 for their strategic plan) and significant resource sharing arrangements between some of these Councils.

• Strong commitment to collaboration in education services provision between secondary, vocational and tertiary education organisations active in the region.

• Strong local capacity and skills base in construction industries.

• Massive access to potential alternative energy sources-solar, wind, biomass, coal seam gas.

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Weaknesses/Challenges in the Orana Region

Skill shortages This challenge or weakness surfaces in various forms across the Orana region. In the smaller, remote centres it is most evident for doctors and medical professionals. In areas where mining is active, skilled tradespeople (particularly electricians and motor mechanics) and professionals such as engineers are in short supply. As reflected in the age demographic analysis for the region, where these professional and trades people are present in the small communities, many are approaching retirement age and their communities are concerned about a relative absence of skilled young people to replace the retirees.

A related weakness identified in the consultation process in 2010, was the lack of in-region tertiary education facilities. If young people have to leave the region to pursue tertiary education, it is feared they will not return to work and live in the region after completion of studies. Furthermore, with many low socio-economic groups in some parts of the region, with low proportions of the population having undertaken post school qualifications (as revealed in the region’s demographic profile), it is less likely that young people will be encouraged to undertake tertiary training if they have to leave the region to do so. However, there is some anecdotal evidence that some do, and many would like to, return to Orana to work and raise their own families. This is a potential area for growth and development and with the growth in mining and associated industries and the improved conditions in agriculture, is worth encouraging as a means of meeting skills shortages.

Although RDA Orana is a Regional Certifying Body for the Regional Skilled Migration Scheme, this program can only partly resolve skill shortages in the region.

Poor transport infrastructure and services With low population density and, in some areas, population decline, local government in the region has struggled to maintain road infrastructure to a standard expected by regional residents. This has been exacerbated by a reduction in rail freight services and related infrastructure, which has increased heavy road haulage of freight, particularly grain.

This has increased damage impacts on regional and local roads maintained by local government, and has also increased freight costs for grains and other industries.

Public transport services are minimal or non-existent for residents of many of the small urban centres across the Orana region. This is particularly a problem for youth and aged sectors of the population who depend on public transport to access health and cultural services in larger regional centres that are not available in their town.

Some of the larger regional centres (notably Bourke and Coonabarabran ) have experienced removal or significant reduction of air transport services. This has created difficulties for residents of those centres accessing services and facilities outside the region, and it has also served as a disincentive for professionals and other potential new residents to relocate to those centres. A number of very wet years has wrought havoc on regional roads, both NSW government and local

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government funded roads. This means that money that may have been used for infrastructure development and improvement is diverted into road maintenance.

Health services and infrastructure While most towns in the region have a hospital or multi-purpose health centre, there has been a significant decline in the range of health services that can be accessed through those facilities by local residents (e.g. maternity services and most surgical procedures are no longer provided from these facilities). This has required a greater proportion of the region’s residents to travel to Dubbo or further afield (Orange or Sydney) for most medical procedures other than general practice diagnosis, treatment and advice.

Dubbo Base Hospital, while providing a wide range of high quality medical and surgical services, is regarded by many to be antiquated and overdue for major upgrades, particularly considering the increasing role it is playing as a hub for medical services for the entire Orana region and beyond (including the far west region of the state). Almost 50% of patients treated at Dubbo Base Hospital reside outside the Dubbo LGA.

As noted in the “skills shortage” section above, there is widespread community concern about the capacity of the region to replace current doctors and other health professionals in many regional centres. There is currently heavy reliance on overseas trained doctors to staff medical practices in some Orana region towns and some difficulty in retaining adequate Visiting Medical Officer coverage for hospitals in those towns.

Youth services and support Most of the Orana region councils have some commitment to youth activities and support, as do Indigenous, church or other community service organisations. However resources and skills for effective, specialized youth services in these small regional towns are often extremely limited. Sometimes there is a lack of cohesion between councils, agencies and community groups in planning and undertaking youth activities-further exacerbating the problems created through a shortage of resources for community services in these towns.

Youth unemployment is high (greater than 20%) in many regional towns due to the lack of diversity in employment opportunities and lack of training opportunities. Without public transport, and due to the large distances involved, there are extremely limited opportunities for youth in these towns to travel for training, employment or recreational activities.

Secure, reliable water supplies The recent prolonged drought has brought to light some current and potential future water supply concerns in the region. The reliance on the 73km open, earthen Albert Priest Channel to supply water for town, stock and domestic and industrial (including mining) purposes for Nyngan and Cobar involves major inefficiencies (up to 50% water losses-over 5000ML per year) .This will be exacerbated if, as is likely, there are further mine developments in those areas.

Other town and stock and domestic water supplies dependent on alluvial aquifers, have noted significant drops in water levels in these aquifers in recent years-a product of lower recharge rates

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in drought, but also increased usage of groundwater by mining and irrigated farming. Short and longer term climate changes have lessened the reliability of water supply to irrigation farmers and miners throughout the region.

This is further impacted upon by recent and possible future government policy to ‘buy back” bulk water licence entitlements to enable a restoration of environmental flows in the Murray Darling Basin system. The draft Murray-Darling Basin Plan released in mid 2012 continues to create concerns about the social and economic impacts of reduced access to water supplies by agriculture and other industries. These impacts have been the subject of a recent analysis and report for Narromine and Warren Shires within the Orana region (see “Narromine and Warren Shire Councils-Socio-economic study of the LMV: climate, policy and water”May 2011). A range of scenarios were tested in this analysis, with losses of up to $115m (29%) in Hickeys Falls Coonabarabran annual value of production and 788 full time equivalent jobs, Courtesy David Kirkland and a 1654 decline in population across the two shires, under a worst case scenario of climate change and government policy impacts on water availability.

Other Weaknesses/Challenges in the Orana Region In addition to the weaknesses/challenges identified above, the strategic planning workshop of the RDA-Orana committee in September 2012 identified the following as other weaknesses or challenges in the region:

• Lack of coverage of the region by electronic communications infrastructure

• Growing shortage of housing in centres with growth in mining

• Shortage of professional and technical services employment

• Challenges for small businesses to recruit and retain skilled staff in mining areas

• Very limited financial capacity for many small local government councils that are facing increased service expectations in areas such as health, aged care, pre-school education and child care, weeds management etc. (perceived as cost shifting from other levels of government). Further, the “dollar for dollar” requirement for many funding grant programs restricts the capacity of small local councils to participate in those programs.

• Restrictions and perceived “red tape” for land managers under current native vegetation management regulations • Shortage of pre-school and child care services in a number of regional centres.

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Opportunities in the Orana Region

Consultation with Orana region stakeholders and review of strategic plan documents from key industry and community service organisations as well as from local, state and federal government agencies, identify the following opportunities for development and strengthening of the Orana region.

Increased Tourism Tourism is an important existing industry for the Orana region with an estimated 700,000 to 800,000 people visiting Dubbo every year and approximately 1.25 million people visiting the Orana region. The Dubbo Economic Development Strategy (2011) identifies local and regional tourism destination development as one of the key priorities for economic development of the region. A situational analysis for the Macquarie River Trails project (2009) reported that the Western Plains region receives only 0.2% of Australia’s tourism expenditure and has the lowest number of international visitors across Australia’s regions. Subject to addressing transport infrastructure Farmers Markets weaknesses outlined elsewhere in this plan, Courtesy MRTI development of a coordinated regional tourism development strategy and encouragement of tourism product development based on the cultural and natural assets of the region, Orana region residents, businesses and councils believe there is significant potential to increase tourism activity in the region. The Macquarie River Trails initiative which aims to develop new eco-cultural activities and business in the region from Burrendong Dam to the Macquarie Marshes has estimated that a 15% increase in visitation to the region would generate $33m in new expenditure in the region and lead to creation of 330 new full time equivalent jobs over a three year period.

New Mining Developments Mining is already an important contributor to revenue and employment in the region. As outlined in the previous section of this Plan, two new start-up mines in the region in 2012/13 will generate close to 200 new full time equivalent jobs for the next 10 years. The Regional Education, Skills and Jobs Plan, NSW Orana 2011-2012 indicates that up to 41 applications have been submitted for potential new mine developments or extensions across the region. There are many exploration initiatives for coal seam gas extraction in the northern parts of the region. Expansion of mine developments not only creates significant direct new employment opportunities, but also opportunities for new support services (including education and training services).

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Sustainable agriculture, food production and processing The existing production and innovation strengths of the agricultural sectors in the Orana region will see continual incremental improvement in productivity. Developments underway on a number of the irrigation schemes in the Lower Macquarie Valley will see improvements in water use efficiency and other innovations in conservation farming will see improvements in energy efficiency and reduced chemical inputs. Funding incentives arising from the Carbon Farming Initiative will provide both opportunities and incentives for farmers to diversify income sources and to adopt farming systems with reduced impacts on natural resources.

Existing processing or value adding of agricultural commodities produced in the region is minimal, with the exception of sheep meat processing in Dubbo and wine production in Mudgee. Increasing fuel and energy costs for freighting bulk agricultural commodities and other flow-on effects from the Carbon Tax, as well as changing consumer preferences for increasing “traceability” of food and fibre, may favour the development of value added processing for some rural commodities closer to their production base within the region. The increasing consumer preferences in both domestic and international markets for clean food with minimal environmental “footprint”, represents a significant opportunity for food and fibre products from this region.

Development of New or Expanded Tertiary Education Facilities Lack of access to within-region tertiary education facilities has been identified as a significant need in this regional planning process. This has been further highlighted in a recent (July 2012) DEEWR/RDA-Orana workshop on workforce development and collaboration involving employment and education service providers from across the region.

Some progress has been made in the medical sector, one of the highest priority skills need areas for the region, with the University of Sydney, School of Rural Health and Charles Sturt University establishing Dubbo based campuses.

The roll out of the National Broadband Network under the National Digital Economy Strategy is planned to commence in Mudgee in late 2012 and in Dubbo in 2013. This has very positive implications for the delivery of high level tertiary education and health services.

There has been discussion in Orana in relation to the establishment of a training facility for delivery of training relating to mining and establish Dubbo as a centre of excellence in this area. The University of NSW School of Mining Engineering, TAFE Western Institute and major mining companies across the region have been consulted and have expressed strong interest in the development of a specialist, high technology training facility for mining and related industries, in Dubbo, which is centrally and strategically well located to service these industries from a large portion of eastern Australia.

Strengthened Regional Approach to Health Services Both the recent National Strategic Framework for Rural and Remote Health (2012) and the Future Directions for Rural Health for the Western NSW Local Health District (2011-currently being updated) reinforce the needs identified for planning and resourcing a comprehensive regional approach to health service delivery in this large, remote region with unique demographic features and health service needs. The plan will feature a significantly upgraded and expanded Dubbo Base

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Hospital as a hub, with commitment to maintaining necessary infrastructure and skilled medical staff in regional towns, supported by appropriate networking and outreach services. Aboriginal health, aged care and mental health services will be key elements. Succession planning and workforce development in key skill areas is essential for what is one of the largest and rapidly growing employment sectors in the region.

Alternative Electrical Power Generation The Orana region has abundant space, sunlight, wind and potential access to natural gas. The implementation of the carbon tax and its direct and indirect implications for the cost of traditional fossil fuel based electricity generation has created increased interest in decentralised, alternative electricity generation infrastructure development. A major energy company is proposing to construct a 106 megawatt solar photovoltaic power plant at Nyngan in the Orana region. This project has had funding approved under the Federal Government’s Solar Flagships program. There are advanced stage plans for a wind powered 60-110 megawatt electricity generation facility in the Bodangora area near Wellington and it is understood that development applications are proceeding for wind farms comprising up to 230 turbines in the Mid-Western Council region.

The NBN and Potential for Economic Development via the Digital Economy as an NBN early release area

1. Health “The Australian healthcare system is currently under great pressure to adopt new, digital strategies to deliver high- quality services to the community (1-2). These include the Personally Controlled Electronic Health Record (PCEHR) as well as telemedicine in conjunction with other tools under the umbrella of the eHealth agenda.” Source: Potential Telehealth Benefits of High Speed Broadband, Pub: Monash University (August 2011)

Current research and development demonstrates the value of eHealth in the delivery of: • Care in acute and chronic illnesses • Significant access to care for isolated or disabled Australians • Overcoming access to acute and chronic

Aged Care Courtesy Pioneer House Mudgee

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health care to people in regions that have difficulty in recruiting and retaining health professionals. • The reduction in professional isolation may significantly enhance the recruitment and retention of the workforce (12). Source: Potential Telehealth Benefits of High Speed Broadband, Pub: Monash University (August 2011)

“The advent of high-capacity broadband will enable clinical-grade video-conferencing as well as real-time transfer of imaging to support clinical decision-making. In a submission to the Australian Government parliamentary inquiry into the potential of the NBN by Monash University, examples were cited of how improved internet capacity could deliver health benefits to the community and research benefits to industry, academic institutions and healthcare facilities (15).” Source: Potential Telehealth Benefits of High Speed Broadband, Pub: Monash University (August 2011)

2. Aged Care A study by Access Economics published in November 2010, demonstrates the capacity of “telehealth” to greatly improve service delivery and make considerable financial savings in the delivery of aged care while making it possible for older Australians to remain for longer in their own homes. New studies in digital technologies demonstrate that these can be incorporated into existing community aged care at home packages funded by the Australian Government. Source: Telehealth for Aged Care (30 November 2010) Access Economics, Pub: Access Economics Pty Limited, Canberra Australia

3. Community and Economic Development “The real value proposition behind fast broadband thus does not reside in the construction alone of this digital highway. It resides in the applications enabled by it, catalysing its potential, transforming public and private sector business models, maximizing its impact.”…”it has been estimated that for every 10% extra of the population 56

who are enabled to get online, a 1% uplift in GDP results. There is thus a significant premium from digital inclusion and getting all in the nation in the network. “A fair go for all in the digital era: Towards ad digital inclusion road map (November 2011) by Dr Tim Williams Pub: Huawei, Australia

4. Small to Medium Business Enterprises In a study conducted by The Allen Consulting Group in 2011, small business owners: “identified opportunities regarding how the NBN might improve how they interacted with their customers/ service recipients. Examples include:

• the ability to sell/market their products online with a greater use of graphics, high-definition video and other multi-media;

• the potential for tools that enhance person-to-person visual communication to bring groups and individuals together;

• profiling for television ads based on specific characteristics of the viewer’s own browsing and viewing habits as a new way to market products;

• the use of Point of View video technology to enhance the online shopping experiences; and

• the development of smart phone-like applications and products.

Source: Opportunities for small business and community organisations in NBN first release areas: Report to the Department of Broadband Communication and the Digital Economy Allen Consulting Group (February 2011)

5. Education “The availability of ubiquitous, high-speed broadband has the potential to significantly extend the reach, availability and quality of education services, particularly in regional areas, to help meet these needs. This can be achieved by supplementing teaching and training with access to subject matter experts and teachers outside of the local area. In addition, the greater data capacity of the NBN (both download and upload) can enable more intensive and immersive online interactions, resulting in higher-quality learning outcomes for students. “ Source: #au 20 National digital economy strategy: Leveraging the national Broadband Network to drive Australia’s Digital Productivity (2011) Digital Economy and Convergence Strategy Branch. Pub: Department of Broadband Communications and the Digital Economy, Canberra Australia

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Recent Issues/Developments which have Impacted on the Orana Region

• State election and change of state government • Federal Election leading to a delicate balance of power involving the Greens and regional independents that has created opportunities for regional Australia • Local Council elections completed (Local Government review underway) • The Murray Darling Basin Plan has progressed to the draft stage • Increasing planning for development of wind and solar electricity generation in the region • Growth/ expansion of some existing mines and significant development in the opening of new mines in the region • Further exploration for coal seam gas and progress in planning for mines and pipelines and predictions of 10000+ wells in the region • Advances in electronic communications technology • High exchange rate of the Australian dollar • Strategic Rural Land Use Policies under development • A carbon tax is now a reality with considerable activity developing around the price on carbon – great regional potential • The Carbon Farming Initiative implemented • Evo Cities campaign strengthened • Progress towards regional roll out of the NBN • High market prices for rural and resource commodities • Changes to skilled migration legislation from 1st July 2012 • Foreign corporations buying large farms • Increased skilled labour shortages • Ongoing drain of labour supply from agriculture and trade sectors by mining industries • New machinery technology developments in farming • Widespread rainfall and flooding in some parts of the region • Housing shortages developing in Dubbo City and Mid-Western Shires • New Dubbo Hospital commenced development • DEEWR has announced a new “Remote Services Program” from 1st July 2013 to provide a more relevant place based and case managed approach that will replace a number of services in order to achieve better outcomes for clients and communities

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Forecast Issues/Developments in the next 2-3 Years which are likely to impact on the Orana Region

• Continued high levels of agricultural production • Increased foreign ownership of farming land • The roll out of the NBN to the region from 2012 and the potential to generate new business developments and transform health and education delivery. • The developments and expansion in mining. • The potential for the region to develop as a mining training centre. • The strategic location of Dubbo as a transport hub for north western NSW. • The carbon tax and the potential for new industries. • Economic restructuring around sustainable energy production and carbon pricing. • Increasing demand from India and China for food and minerals • Difficulty in encouraging young people to return to farms • Continued loss of Australia’s manufacturing base to India, China and other developing economies • A federal election and possible change of government • New Murray Darling Basin water policy • Involvement of agriculture in carbon trading • Recruitment and job retention incentives implemented in remote communities • Strong seasonal, commodity price and irrigation water supply outlooks for farmers • Pressure on housing and education facilities in indigenous communities • Change in local government/RDA relationship • Loss of young people from the region • Young people not getting involved in community organisations, making continued existence of some organisations problematic • Growth of partnerships and resource sharing between local government councils • Continuing welfare dependency in some communities in the region • Advocacy for a Melbourne/Brisbane rail link commences development • More e-commerce, e-health and e-education services accessible in the region • Resources to encourage the development of the region as a centre for training in the mining industries • Feasibility of a Western Region Police Academy investigated • Transport infrastructure priority upgrades commenced • More widespread use of social media • Land Council elections • Increasing demand for aged care services and accommodation • Increasing employment in mining leading to challenges in some “hot spots” in the region for housing, education, transport and other infrastructure • Further loss of workforce from agriculture, trades, local government and small business to the mining sector • Increasing problems in freight transport access to ports.

Regional Plan 2012 -2020 Café Mudgee Courtesy MRTI 60

Action Plan

Key Regional Issues and Priorities for Economic Development and Job Creation Based on the analysis of the demographic, environmental, social and economic features of the Orana region and the outcomes of three regional planning forums hosted by RDA Orana over the past 12 months (in Workforce Collaboration; Educations and Skills; Infrastructure), the following are proposed as the priority areas for focus by RDA-Orana and collaborating organisations.

Strong Partnerships and Effective Collaboration • RDA Orana is committed to developing strategic relationships with key stakeholders organisations and agencies that service Orana to: • Ensure comprehensive knowledge within RDA Orana of what is driving development and change in the region; • As the basis of partnerships and collaboration on regional issues and joint projects.

• Government Departments, Organisations and Agencies that RDA Orana will work closely with will include: • Department of Regional Australia, Local Government, Arts and Science; • Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR); • Department of Innovation • Department of Environment and Climate Change • Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry • Clean Energy Regulator • NSW Farmers Association • Peak Agribusiness Industry organisations (MLA,GRDC, AWI, and equivalents in other industries) • Minerals Council • Local Aboriginal Land Councils across the region • Murdi Paaki • NSW Industry and Investment; • NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet; • The Orana Regional Organisation of Councils; • Thirteen local governments: Dubbo City and Wellington, Mid-Western, Gilgandra, Coonamble, Walgett, Narromine, Warren, Cobar, Bourke, Brewarrina, Bogan and Warrumbungle Shires; • Chambers of Commerce • NSW Department of Education and Communities; • Western Institute of TAFE; • Universities: Charles Sturt University, University of Sydney, University of NSW; • Other NSW RDAs especially Hunter, Northern Inland, Central West, Riverina, Central Coast and New England; • Central West and Western Catchment Management Authorities;

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Capitalise on the Region’s Strengths in Agriculture

RDA-Orana will work with peak agricultural industry organisations, producer groups, DPI and others to:

• Promote value adding and brand building for agricultural commodities produced in the region

• Redevelop and invigorate Trangie Agricultural Research Centre as a focus for innovation in sustainable farming systems in collaboration with the Carbon Farming Initiative, conservation farming groups, the Catchment Management Authorities, and Rural Industry R&D Corporations (Meat and Livestock Australia, Grains R&D Corporation, Cotton R&D Corporation, Australian Wool Innovation and others)

• Support farmers and farmer organisations to investigate and implement farming systems that are more water and energy efficient, which efficiently sequester carbon in soils and vegetation and which attract financial incentives for achieving greenhouse gas and other environmental improvements

• Promote diversification in our farming systems with research, development and marketing support for new, high value, water efficient cropping enterprises that will be profitable alternatives to existing broad-acre irrigated cropping enterprises in some areas and when water supplies become more limited as a result of seasonal variation, government policy and/or climate change

• Promote diversification in arid zone agricultural systems, including the utilisation of cleared invasive native scrub, forestry and cropping by-products as fuel for energy generation (biofuels).

Cotton Harvest Courtesy Narromine Council

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Build a Coordinated, Effective Regional Health Service Delivery System

RDA Orana will work with the Western NSW Local Health District, Aboriginal Medical Services, the Dubbo Plains and Outback Divisions of General Practice, state and federal government agencies to:

• Develop a comprehensive plan for provision and resourcing of effective, integrated regional health services and associated infrastructure and skilled human resources.

• Fully implement plans to redevelop Dubbo Base Hospital as a hub for all high level health services in the region, beyond the current stage one commitment.

• Advocate for development of low cost accommodation services for the families of patients from remote communities receiving hospital treatment in Dubbo.

• Facilitate further development of in-region tertiary training in all relevant aspects of health care in collaboration with the University of Sydney, Charles Sturt University and other education institutions.

• Investigate and promote incentives for medical professionals to relocate to remote regional centres-including housing and employment opportunities for partners of medical professionals.

• Advocate that local government be relieved of cost shifting for the provision of some aspects of health care, aged care and related services in remote areas.

• Advocate for development of mobile services for patients undergoing follow-up treatment for cancer-to enable those services to be delivered in the patients’ home region.

• Encourage accelerated development of the National Broadband Network to enable E-Health service delivery in remote regional hospitals and multi-purpose health centres.

• Work to overcome the critical shortage of doctors and / or other health professionals being experienced by many Orana LGA’s.

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Improve Regional Transport Infrastructure and Services

RDA Orana will work with local government agencies in the region, OROC, Transport for NSW and road, rail and air transport organisations to:

• Ensure that Orana regional transport needs and priorities are reflected in the NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan being developed by the state government. These regional priorities were identified at the Orana Region Infrastructure Summit (Oct 2011) and are as follows:

• Melbourne to Brisbane inland rail route

• Bells Line of Road expressway

• Upgrades to the Newell Highway

• Upgrades to the Golden Highway

• Improved road train access to key industrial areas and rail terminals in the region, and to sea ports

• Develop an inter-modal road/rail hub in western Sydney

• Upgrades of freight rail lines linking key mining developments (including Toongi and Cobbora) and major grain supply areas (Coonamble) to the main rail network

• Upgrade and seal segments of the Wool Track to a standard that will create an alternative, inland north/south highway

• Develop and expand hub and spoke air service capacity to Dubbo and other Orana region towns

• Install more passing loops on the Dubbo to Sydney rail line

Mudgee Rail Station Courtesy MRTI

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Expand Tourism and Related Business RDA Orana will work with Inland NSW Tourism, Destinations NSW, Tourism NSW, local government organisations, Dubbo Western Plains Zoo, Macquarie River Trails and other tourism industry organisations to:

• Develop a coordinated tourism development plan for the region to promote tourism assets and encourage linkages between tourism operators. Note, the tourism development plan should develop a consensus target for quantifiable growth in the scale of tourist visits and expenditure in the Orana region

• Support development of new tourism products and destinations, with an emphasis on environmental, mining and heritage (European and Aboriginal) assets in the region • Encourage and support development of skills and entrepreneurship for tourism business operators in the region

More Effective Delivery of Aboriginal Health, Education and Employment Services RDA Orana will work with providers of education, health and employment services for Aboriginal communities, Murdi Paaki, Local Aboriginal Land Councils, local government organisations and others to:

• Ensure there is collaboration between service providers and mechanisms for local coordination of the planning and delivery of such services in remote communities with high Aboriginal populations.

• Ensure there is provision of mentoring and support for new businesses (particularly tourism related) by Aboriginal communities, groups and individuals.

Facilitate and Support Development of Alternative Energy Generation Capacity RDA Orana will work with existing and new electricity generators and local, state and federal government agencies to:

• Facilitate feasibility studies, community consultation and planning approval processes for proposed new developments utilising solar, wind, biofuel and natural gas to drive new electricity generation facilities in the region.

• Assist existing and new electricity generators to access funding programs and incentives for trialling and development of alternative electricity generation capacity.

• Develop a regional consensus on a goal for the proportion of regional energy needs to be met from alternative fuel/energy sources.

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Cudgegong River Courtesy MRTI

Promote the Potential of the Digital Economy as the Basis for Economic and Regional Development RDA-Orana will work with the NBN Co., the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, local government and businesses to:

• Ensure that NBN infrastructure roll-out plans for Dubbo and Mudgee are implemented according to current schedules(2012/13) and , further, that NBN infrastructure “loops” be planned to service other regional centres within the subsequent three years

• Promote and deliver workshops and other communication activities to promote the economic and social benefits of the digital economy.

Regional Plan 2012 -2020 Hermidal Mine Courtesy Bogan Shire Council 67

Annexes

Contents

68 Bogan Shire 70 Bourke Shire Council 72 Brewarrina Shire 76 Cobar Shire Council 78 Coonamble Shire Council 80 Dubbo City 84 Gilgandra Shire Council 86 Mid-Western Regional Council 89 Narromine Shire Council 92 Walgett Shire Council 94 Warren Shire Council 96 Warrumbungle Shire Council 99 Wellington Shire Council

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Bogan Shire

Summary Nyngan, the main town in Bogan Shire is strategically situated on the Bogan River at the junction of the Mitchell Highway (north to Bourke and Western Queensland) and the Barrier Highway (west to Broken Hill and South Australia). The Shire with a population of 2900 has an area of 14,610 square kilometres and is the geographical centre of the State. Around 1882, residents of the small settlement of Canonba, approximately 30 kilometres north of Nyngan on the banks of Duck Creek, moved to establish a town by the newly-constructed railway and Nyngan came into being. In April 1990 record heavy rains in the catchment of the Bogan saw floodwaters rise to alarming levels. Despite the best efforts of the townspeople who laid 260,000 sandbags and an army of volunteers, the levee was breached and soon Nyngan was under water and isolated in a vast inland sea. With extensive damage and all services to the town cut, it was decided to airlift almost the entire population of Nyngan to safety. This remarkable feat of organisation is commemorated by an Iroquois helicopter displayed outside the Nyngan Museum. With the assistance of people from all over NSW and beyond Nyngan was fully restored and a new levee, one metre higher than the 1990 flood level, protects the town and its people. The Shire has an abundance of productive agricultural land used for sheep and cattle production and large scale cropping enterprises such as wheat and canola. The Tritton Copper Mine is located near the village of Hermidale and adds another important dimension to the economic activity of the Shire. Nyngan, which has a reputation as a friendly and safe community, offers warm hospitality for the many passing travelers and all the facilities of a modern rural township. Three Motels, two Caravan Parks and Hotels provide a choice of accommodation options. Three licensed Clubs cater for entertainment and relaxation. The town also boasts a selection of cafes, restaurants and take-away food outlets for dining. The Shire has a high school, four primary schools, a pre-school, a mobile pre-school which services many isolated rural communities and a TAFE Campus. Nyngan’s medical needs are catered for by the Nyngan Health Service (Multi-purpose Health Centre which incorporates a nursing home complex) and a network of health professionals including two doctors and a dentist. The recreational and sporting facilities in Nyngan are excellent and include many active community groups as well as facilities for bowls, golf, tennis, dancing, swimming, rugby union, rugby league, touch football, cricket, netball, fishing, boating, canoeing, water-skiing, soccer, little athletics and pony club.

Opportunities Due to the variability of the Bogan River (the Shire’s main watercourse), Nyngan and the neighbouring town of Cobar are dependent on water from the Albert Priest Channel which runs from the Macquarie River to the Bogan River just upstream of Nyngan. It was the brainchild of George Albert Priest who was Town Clerk at Nyngan for 44 years. The Channel is 62km long and currently has a capacity of around 64ML per day. A pipeline from Nyngan ensures a constant water supply for Cobar. Bogan Shire Council believes that piping of the Channel is important to meet the challenges

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of ongoing water security into the future. During community consultation that was undertaken for the Bogan Shire Community Strategic Plan, the following themes came through: • continue to support and reinvigorate our local economy, • establish improved social and recreational opportunities, • provide local employment opportunities, • maintain effective transport networks which play a key role in our community • need for affordable housing and • ongoing provision of quality health and emergency services

With our Youth being one of the most important demographics in our Shire, part of this community consultation involved engaging with students from Nyngan High School to share their ideas on what they thought Nyngan and surrounding areas in our Shire should be like in the future. These included:

What are our Strengths? • Close community - willingness to help each other and pitch in. • Regular community events such as the Bogan Day Out and musical productions • Good Sporting Opportunities • Safe school and community environment • Lots of recreational facilities such as the pool, parks and river

What opportunities do we have? • Need a Youth Centre • Establish an “Adolescent” park that includes outdoor exercise equipment and climbing structures • Start an outdoor cinema • Make improvements to the skate park • Encourage more and varied retail outlets • Improve and upgrade the Palais Theatre

Bogan River Courtesy Bogan Shire Council

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Bourke Shire Council

Bourke Shire is situated in Western New South Wales at the crossroads of the Mitchell Highway, Kamilaroi Highway and the Kidman Way. With an area of 43,000 square kilometres, the shire is home to many small villages, and is considered to represent the edge of the settled agricultural districts and the gateway to the Outback. This is reflected in a traditional Australian expression "Back o' Bourke", referring to the Outback. The Shire has an estimated population of 2,800 residents.

The township of Bourke, which is located on the Darling River, was established in 1859 as a paddleboat destination. The port was formerly the largest inland port in the world used for exporting wool.

The Shire's prosperity is built around the pastoral, irrigation, tourism and service industries and the countryside around Bourke is used mainly for sheep farming with some irrigated fruit and cotton crops near the river.

The land is the traditional country of the Ngemba people.

Points of Interest

Back O’ Bourke Exhibition Centre – This Exhibition Centre provides a comprehensive story of the Darling River over a 500 year period, taking visitors on a journey through its history. It provides information on the paddleboats, early pastoralists, aboriginal history, poets, the unions, early settlers, Afghan cameleers and Cobb and Co Coaches.

Jandra Paddleboat - The PV Jandra is a replica paddle vessel built locally by the Mansell family in 2000. The Jandra is licensed to carry 100 passengers and offers 2 regular cruise s per day along the Darling River.

Historical Buildings of Bourke – Some of the historic buildings to be seen in Bourke include The Old London Bank (1888), Courthouse (1900),Post Office (1880), and Post Office Hotel (1888). At the corner of Mitchell and Wilson Streets is the Carriers Arms Inn, frequented by Henry Lawson in the early 1890's and mentioned in some of his stories.

Old Crossley Engine - Located at the Wharf area is a fully restored 1923 vintage Crossley oil fuelled stationary engine.

The Lock and Weir - the first Lock to be built on a river anywhere along the Murray or Darling River systems, the Bourke Lock and Weir, built in 1897 is the only one of its kind built on the Darling River.

Schools and health services

Bourke has a public Primary School and High School as well as well as a PCYC. The town also has a district hospital, community health services, Aboriginal health services and 3 general practitioners.

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Transport

Bourke has a sealed airport, terminal facilities and aviation refuelling. Commercial flights are no longer available into Bourke. A Country Link bus services operates 3 times per week between Bourke and Dubbo.

Sealed roads now link Bourke to eastern state capital cities. This has meant that interstate transport companies travel through Bourke between capital cities including Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.

Facts & Figures

Population: 3,100

Average Temp: January - 36.3©C July - 17.9©C

Located: 370kms north west of Dubbo

Key Industries: Pastoral, Irrigation & Tourism

Emerging Issues

• Declining population and continuation of sustainable community for basic services • Increasing young population • Reduced transport services • Ensuring government departments are suitably staffed • Ongoing uncertainty about water reform

Potential for development

Opportunities that may arise through improvements to communication Opportunities that may arise around freight distribution Changing demand for agricultural products eg goat industry, irrigated lands, grazing Increased small business opportunities in the tourism sector Increased opportunities for accommodation providers Increases in non government organisation sector

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Brewarrina Shire

Brewarrina Council Vision Statement “Build on the economic and social sustainability in order to preserve the rich heritage of the community.”

Brewarrina Council Mission Statement “To provide local employment, investment opportunities, enhanced lifestyle and an improved social framework by encouraging the development of the local community and its infrastructure”.

Introduction to Brewarrina Shire Brewarrina is a rural and remote community located in the north west region of New South Wales on the banks of the Barwon River, 800 km’s north west of Sydney.

The shire has a total population of 1766 persons (ABS 2011), spread over an area of 19,000 sq km’s and borders the state line of Queensland to the north and is surrounded by the shires of Walgett, Warren, Bogan and Bourke. The nearest major population and regional centre is the city of Dubbo, approximately 400 km’s southeast of Brewarrina.

Brewarrina is the largest centre in the Shire, consisting of two Aboriginal reserves situated close to town (West Brewarrina and Barwon Four). The population of Brewarrina represents about 62% of the total population of the Brewarrina shire.

In addition to Brewarrina, there are four other populated centres within the shire; the village of Goodooga in the north east of the shire, the village of Angledool approximately 50km’s east of Goodooga, Weilmoringle 100km’s north west of Brewarrina and Gongolgon 45 km south of Brewarrina.

Brewarrina shire’s population has reduced by 9.2% between 2006 and 2011 and 498 people have left the shire since 1991. One third of Brewarrina Shire’s Population is younger than 19 years and Aboriginal people up 59.2% of the population (ABS 2011).

The Brewarrina Shire is home to the Ngemba, Murriwarri, Euahlayi, Weilwan, Ualari and Barranbinya people. Brewarrina has great historical significance to the Aboriginal people of the region as the town was one of the great inter-tribal meeting places of eastern Australia with the unique fisheries or “Nghunhu”, sustaining hundreds of Aboriginal people during the tribal gatherings held prior to European settlement.

The fisheries are elaborate man made stone constructions in the riverbed designed to trap fish. The Brewarrina Fish Traps is an Australian heritage listed site and are of spiritual significance to Aboriginal people.

Agriculture is a strong sector of the Brewarrina economy and the area is a major producer of wool, livestock and a significant producer of cotton and wheat.

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Council Issues and Priorities 2012/13 Asset management is the greatest challenge for Brewarrina Shire Council in the long-term. Council does not have the resources or the financial means to maintain and manage existing essential community infrastructure. Council is reliant on grants and funding from State and Federal governments to continue to maintain road networks, waste depots, parks and reserves and community buildings.

Council is drowning under additional financial pressures placed on them by State and Federal Governments who continue to cost-shift to local government. Brewarrina Shire Council has limited income yet is being continually pressured to deliver more and more services traditionally provided by the State.

Rate pegging is having an acute effect on small, rural Councils as it places limitations on ratable incomes. Councils need more flexible options to control income or alternatively find additional revenue sources. Recognition of Local Government in the constitution is necessary for Councils to receive financial assistance directly from the federal government. In the coming 12 months Brewarrina Shire Council are focused on delivering the following projects and programs to the community:

• Brewarrina’s sesquicentennial (150 year) celebrations – 20th to 28th April 2013 Council recognises indigenous Australians inhabited the Brewarrina area 40,000 years before the state of NSW proclaimed Brewarrina a town in 1863. Brewarrina’s history predates back to pre-historic times however our sesquicentennial anniversary is a celebratory milestone for our modern history.

• General fund rate increase Brewarrina shire has one of the smallest rate bases in NSW, with a general rate income in 2011/12 of $882,540. Council has considered and adopted a rate increase of 3.6% for the 2012/13 financial year, which is the maximum increase allowable under the State Government’s rate pegging legislation. In real-terms this rate increase will only generate an additional income of $31,770 per year and for the average town dweller, will result in an increase of around $10.00.

• User-pays filtered water Council has installed water meters to all households receiving a filtered water service which will generate a user-pays water charge instead of the historical flat water rate for each rateable property. Unfiltered water will not be metered and a common access charge will be applied to all connected properties. Water meter billing will commence on the 1st July 2012 and conservative water users can expect to see savings and those who use filtered water more liberally can expect to pay for the privilege. It will operate in exactly the same way as your electricity account in that the more you use, the more you pay.

• Repairs and maintenance to the Brewarrina Community Centre Council has applied to borrow funds of $250,000, to repair and maintain the Brewarrina Community Centre.

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• Upgrade of Brewarrina sand filter As a matter of urgency, Council has applied to borrow funds of $250,000, to replace the Brewarrina sand filter and ensure the future water quality for Brewarrina town residents.

• Upgrade of local rural roads and regional rural roads Council has allocated:

• $633,567 to re-sheet local rural roads including the Monkey Bridge, Narran Lake and Goodooga-Langboyd Roads • $203,763 to reseal sections of road on the Jobs Gate and Goodooga Roads • $328,883 to gravel sections of the Goodooga Road

• Upgrade of town streets Council has allocated $35,492 to reseal existing pavement on Bourke St (between Darling and Sandon St) and Bathurst St (between Young and Belmore St).

• Customer service standards Council will develop and adopt customer service standards across the organisation to ensure staff and residents / ratepayers have a clear understanding of what Council’s level of customer service is.

• Corporate governance and risk management Council will ensure corporate governance compliance and risk management obligations are met.

• Achieve best practice in water and sewer management During 2012/13, Council will achieve best practice in water and sewer services as outlined by the Lower Macquarie Water Users Association.

• Waste management strategy Council will adopt and implement a waste management strategy to control waste in our towns and villages

• Review of Brewarrina town master plan Council will work with business owners in the Brewarrina CBD to review and develop a Brewarrina Town Master Plan that focuses on the aesthetics of our business district.

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Community Priorities 2022

Council’s community consultation to develop the 2022 Brewarrina Community Strategic Plan identified the following future priorities:

• Increase pride in our towns and villages

• Attract visitors to stop and stay and new residents to move to Brewarrina

• Maintain current services and improve access for residents to services

• Promote our point of difference as a community

• Create employment opportunities

• Conserve water and energy

• Foster a safe community

• Encourage residents to engage in community

• Involve our children and youth in decisions and activities

• Build community respect

• Build unity of purpose within the community

• Improve our sporting and recreational infrastructure

• Encourage residents and ratepayers to have a say in decisions affecting the community

• Develop local leaders

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Cobar Shire Council

Cobar Shire is situated in the centre of New South Wales encompassing an area of around 45,600 square kilometres, about 700kms north-west of Sydney and 650kms north of Canberra. Cobar is located on the crossroads of three major highways – the Kidman Way linking Melbourne to Brisbane, the Barrier Highway linking Sydney to Adelaide via Broken Hill and the Wool Track linking the Sunraysia area to South East Queensland.

Cobar Shire is home to around 5,000 residents, the majority of whom live in the town of Cobar. There is a growing number of FIFO and DIDO workers and contractors in town due to expansion of current mining operations and development of new ones.

The Shire’s prosperity is built around the thriving mining – copper, lead, silver, zinc, gold – and pastoral industries, which are strongly supported by a wide range of attractions and activities, that make it a major tourist stop-over point and a wonderful place to live, work and play in.

There are currently four operational mines, with another two granted DAs in recent months. Significant exploration activities are taking place across the Shire. Over a third of the workforce is employed in the mining and manufacturing industries, 9.5% are employed in agriculture and retail is the next largest employer in the Shire. Due to mining, the median weekly income is higher than the national average.

There are around 2,300 dwellings in the Shire with over 36% of residents renting, and only 30% of residents owned their home at census time. The employers in town are large holders of real estate to provide housing for their workforce. There is a current shortage of housing due to the mining boom.

53.2% of people over 15 years of age in Cobar have no qualifications, which were down from 60% in 2001. Twenty percent of the population have vocational qualifications. As you would expect, this flows through to over half the population being employed as technicians or trade workers, machinery operators/drivers or labourers. There are ample opportunities to upskill the current workforce.

The fortunes of the mining industry greatly affect the employment prospects of residents and many people move to Cobar when the mining industry is doing well. These people come not only from other areas in Australia, but many are now coming to Cobar from overseas, adding to the multicultural diversity of Cobar.

Despite the lack of qualifications in the workforce in Cobar, Cobar is currently blessed with a low unemployment rate as the existing mines expand and new mines are coming into development. In February 2012 Cobar’s unemployment rate was just 4.1%, the lowest in the Orana area. This compares favourably to the regional NSW rate of 5.4%.

Major Issues Affecting the Shire Council’s Financial Sustainability Cobar is a general purpose Council providing a complete range of services – many of which are NOT council responsibility but we do so as the community demands we do as other levels of government

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have abandoned their responsibility. This includes significant investment in health facilities and services and a wide range of inadequately or unfunded community services.

There is inadequate funding available from other levels of government. The requirement to match many grants on a dollar for dollar basis disadvantages Council, and Council is not able to use funds already spent on getting the project ‘shovel ready’ or in putting the grants together (which is a significant investment) as matching funds. With $2.4m of rate income, there is little discretionary income to be used for matching grant funds.

Council has been providing services that are not core to Council, including television services and recently Council had to spend $330,000 on an RMS inspection station that is returning $12,000 a year in income to undertake heavy vehicle inspections by the RMS.

Inadequate Infrastructure Our main asset is our road network. We have 3000km of roads, of which 2500kms are unsealed. This creates access issues as residents try to get produce to market when roads are wet. Roads are a major expenditure item for Council. Council does not have adequate funds to maintain this network. Council is currently seeking increased funding for the regional road network – our per kilometre rate is far lower than other shires. We are also seeking to have the Wool Track sealed. This is a major regional road that is used extensively when graded as it provides a short cut to Queensland. However, once the quality of the road falls again, trucks are forced to use another route and Shire residents are left with poor quality infrastructure.

Cobar has an inadequate water supply. Water is brought 130kms in a twin pipeline plus 80kms of open channel and is stored in open weir pools. There are significant water losses and challenges for Council to ensure continuity of a quality water supply. Council currently receives only half of the water paid for as the rest is lost along the supply chain. Council is seeking to have the Albert Priest Chanel piped and improvements to water storages at Nyngan made to increase the amount of water arriving at Cobar. The mining industry and residents are dependent a consistent water supply. Council is also seeking an increase in our water licence.

There is a shortage of rental accommodation. Due to the cyclical nature of mining, investors and contractors are not willing to build new stock. Motels are booked out by industry, which affects the ability to do business and the tourism industry. A mining camp has just opened.

Professional Skill Attraction It is difficult and expensive to find appropriately trained and experienced people who are willing to come to a remote community. All employers are struggling in Cobar, from Council, to the mines and contractors, to the supermarkets.

Reduction of Government Services (State and Commonwealth) There are very few government agencies located in Cobar and even fewer NGOs. Cobar is not adequately serviced. In the past Council has provided some services, such as Centrelink and RMS (motor registry), however these have been provided at a loss. Council is now seeking adequate reimbursement for providing these services. Cobar is not treated as a regional centre by government and service providers.

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Coonamble Shire Council

Coonamble Shire has an area of 9,955 square kilometres and is located on the traditional Indigenous land of the Gamilaroi and Wailwan people. Coonamble Shire is part of the Orana Region of Central Northern NSW and is bounded by the Shires of Walgett to the North, Warrumbungle in the East, Gilgandra to the South and Warren to the West.

Coonamble is situated on the Castlereagh River which runs through the town dividing east from west. Water from the Great Artesian Basin is pumped into reservoirs throughout the town for domestic use. Residents of rural properties account for approximately one third of the district population. The majority of the Shire’s agricultural resources are devoted to dry and broadacre farming and grazing. The district is one of the most productive in the State for sheep and beef.

Population Profile

0-4 5-14 15-24 25-54 55-64 65 years Totals years years years years years & over Coonamble 221 524 325 1080 346 479 2975 Gulargambone 31 69 58 178 67 87 490 Quambone 12 26 28 88 22 22 198 264 619 411 1346 435 588 3663

Community Goals Council Responses

Utilise on line technologies to improve virtual connections Our community is connected across (eg: NBN opportunities in response to remote health geographic, interest, cultural and management), develop community skill & knowledge social groups. sharing, support activities that increase community participation, connection and ageing in place.

Community development activities and cross agency Our community is a place where collaboration, develop and grow the community’s sense people feel safe. of shared responsibility.

A range of services support our Support and promote healthy lifestyles, support the community to lead healthy lifestyles. production of local produce.

Our community respects and Develop cultural events, promote interaction across encourages the diversity of culture, cultural groups, promote role models who demonstrate ability and ages of our population. community respect.

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Community Goals Council Responses

Our community connections support Improve and develop road maintenance and and facilitate our access to each construction across the Shire, develop public transport other and our local services. (eg: Inland Rail)

Development of multi purpose facilities (eg: Rodeo Cultural expression and enjoyment- Arena, Gulargambone skate park), expand the role of access to appropriate facilities. Council libraries.

Health-safe and reliable access to Pursue best practice water management, minimise hard primary utilities. waste, improve recreational facilities.

Our community is looking to the future Attract investment in alternative energy production to improve and protect our access to (eg: Green power), ensure long term management and resources. protection of community assets.

Reinvigorate the main streets of Coonamble & We support our local economy without Gulargambone (eg: street beautification, tourism product compromising on quality. development).

Attract new industry to the Shire (eg: agriculture, Growth & diversity: our growing horticultural and aquaculture enterprises), promote local regional economy is diverse. natural resources to encourage business & tourism(eg: Eco Spa project), promote rural entrepreneurial ventures.

Educational opportunities include support for our local economy. Encourage innovative opportunities that address the needs of the local population, focus on relevant, local Local employment: appropriate and and responsive education and employment solutions. satisfying jobs.

Our environment supports local fresh Promote and support local food production and food needs of our community. consumption.

Environmentally sustainable Pursue ecologically and environmentally sustainable investment in our community. development and strategic use of land.

Ensure the health of our river system, focus on protection Good environmental management. of our natural resources.

Encourage broad involvement in community activities, Our community is supported, and encourage and promote a high level of leadership in active and respected leaders. the community, promote opportunities for community leaders.

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Dubbo City “DUBBO” was taken from the aboriginal word meaning ‘Red Earth’ which refers to the red ochre used as body paint. The area’s traditional owners are the Tubbagah People of the Wiradjuri Nation.

A thriving and vibrant regional centre, the Dubbo of today is one of the State’s largest inland cities servicing a catchment area of more than 120,000 people. Traditional rural industries thrive alongside extensive educational, professional, government and retail services, a growing IT sector and emerging boutique enterprises. At the heart of NSW, the City is ideally located at the intersection of major routes for road, rail and air transport. Since becoming a village in 1849, Dubbo’s population now exceeds 41,000. With a 0.8 per cent annual growth rate predicted in the next five years and continued development, the local population is expected to exceed 51,500 by the year 2036 (KPMG “Population Outlook for Dubbo City Council 2012”).

The City’s economic strength lies heavily in the broad range of industries that reinforce its role as a regional service centre for the surrounding Central West and Orana regions; supported by a diversity of industries and a thriving retail sector of some 3500 businesses. With a strong economic, geographic and demographic platform, Dubbo’s greatest asset is its people and their commitment to the future success of the City and the region.

Snapshot

Size of Dubbo LGA: 3425 square kilometres Traditional owners: Tubbagah People of the Wiradjuri Nation Villages: Ballimore, Eumungerie and Wongarbon Elevation: 264m (Dubbo) Population: 40,491 (Source: ABS October 2012) Catchment population 120,000 Median age 36 (ABS October 2012) Businesses More than 3500 Value of GRP $2.1 billion in 2008/2009 Main industries Retail, health services, manufacturing, transport, tourism, education, construction, business services, agriculture, government services

Strengths • Strong retail/service sector (including professional support services) capturing high proportion of regional market and servicing a population in excess of 120,000 persons. • Availability of a wide range of public and private educational facilities ranging from primary and secondary (both public and private) through to University and Technical education, which are supported by high level institutions such as the University of Sydney’s School of Rural Health. • The Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo. • Clearly recognised as the regional capital for western New South Wales, with positive population growth.

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• Central location from four major capital cities, i.e. Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane which is well serviced by road, rail and air. • High quality parks and gardens and open space areas with a high standard and choice of sporting facilities and activities/organisations. • Availability of reasonably priced residential and industrial land for development. • Water and sewerage infrastructure planned to cater for an equivalent population of 55,000 persons. • Low unemployment rates with stable business sector with reliable work force and relatively low absenteeism or industrial disputation. • Lower cost of living as a result of real estate prices compared to coastal and metropolitan areas. • High quality cultural infrastructure e.g. Western Plains Cultural Centre and Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre.

Weaknesses • Low level of tertiary qualifications in community. • Lack of investment by the State and Federal Government in the public health system. • Lack of use of the river aspect, particularly in the CBD. • Lack of specialist medical practitioners and midwives. • Perception of City’s image particularly with national media focus on negative stories from the past. • No boarding school. • No signature event.

Opportunities • Growing awareness of and an improvement in the image of the City of Dubbo in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide. • Continued population and economic growth of the City, as the cost of living in Sydney is much greater than Dubbo due primarily to housing costs, thereby promoting a drift from the metropolitan area of both individuals and industry. • Growth of the airport as the major inland airport in regional NSW for both passenger movements and industry support activities inclusive of the availability of interstate flights (and new links such as to/from Newcastle). • Establishment of a regional inland transport facility establishing Dubbo as the warehousing centre. • Western Plains Cultural Centre and the Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre to provide a higher level of cultural activity and enhance visitor opportunities and experience. • Expansion of the tourism industry to cater for both international and domestic based visitors. • Establishment of Dubbo as a Centre of Excellence in renal health services. • Development of café dining precinct in the CBD after hours and on weekends. • Further development of communications technology infrastructure and transportation linkages that improves Dubbo’s accessibility in real terms to capital cities and decentralisation opportunities flowing there from. • Centre of Excellence/Service Centre for mining industry. • Tourism opportunity to promote and celebrate Aboriginal culture

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Threats • Obsolete rail infrastructure. • Lack of coordination between different levels of government in the provision of services. • Recession and drought causing a slowdown of the economy and growth. • Crime/anti-social behaviour. • Continued reduction in financial support for services and infrastructure by both State and Federal Governments diminishing Council’s ability to provide services and facilities. • High fuel prices and its impact on tourism and household budgets compounded by relatively long travel distances. • Ageing population, shrinking labour markets, decreasing birth rates and resulting social impacts. • Loss of medical services to other areas. • Continued policy of rate pegging legislation imposed by State Government. • Reduced water allocations due to drought and climate change impacts. • Uncertainty regarding ongoing government arrangements for local water supply and sewerage services. • Council’s financial capacity to maintain, renew and upgrade its assets to meet community expectations for infrastructure services into the future. • Electricity prices.

Issues • Continued viable access to Sydney’s Kingsford Smith Airport for regional travellers. • Funding for the asset management of Council’s infrastructure e.g. roads, water, sewerage, storm water assets and recreational and open space needs and ongoing services. • Cost shifting by State and Federal Governments to Local Government. • The cost of capital and access to funding for infrastructure upgrades that will support the growth of the airport. • Increasing expectations from community of Council. • Crime/anti social behaviour. • The structure of delivery of health services in the region by Western New South Wales Local Health Network along with the quality of health infrastructure in the City. • Increased recognition by both State and Federal Governments of Dubbo’s role as a regional capital and the need for commensurate services and funding. • Funding for the recurrent operations of Council and any new initiatives. • Federal Water Reform agenda, most notably the proposed Murray Darling Basin Plan and Infrastructure Australia’s “Review of Regional Water Quality and Security” released in January which recommended removal of Local Water utility functions from local government in NSW and Queensland. • Saleyards upgrade/future management arrangements. • Inconsistent population projections.

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Needs • Attraction of major employment generators to the City. • Attraction of conferences and cultural events to the City. • Higher financial support for regional New South Wales by governments. • Development of a health strategy, aimed at creating Dubbo as a Centre of Excellence for primary health care that addresses: • Development of dementia/palliative/disabled and mental health care facilities for all ages in the community. • Low cost hospital and visitors’ accommodation. • The establishment of a Renal Health Service Centre of Excellence. • The ongoing expansion of medical facilities and services. • Investment in the establishment of a boarding school. • A higher number of quality tourist generating attractions/experiences. • Promotion and support of whole of Government approach to social issues in public housing estates. • Increased range of higher educational courses within the City. • Support and partnerships with existing businesses to promote the City and their products. • Higher levels of community participation (volunteers) in Council programs. • 4+ star accommodation to service the conference and event market. • Swimming pool upgrade. • Improved and varied facilities to cater for the increasing RV/caravan travelling visitors to the region.

Dubbo City Courtesy Dubbo Shire Council

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Gilgandra Shire Council

Gilgandra Shire Council has approximately 200 equivalent full time staff and an annual budget of $26 million. Gilgandra is quite unique in local government with Council managing two Aged Care facilities and a disability service, (residential and supported employment) that account for approximately 100 of the staff and a budget of $7 million.

This non traditional model has come out of meeting the needs of the community and Gilgandra Shire Council taking on a lead agency or facilitator role for our community, coordinating or delivering services on behalf of other levels of government.

Council has a long history of providing health infrastructure for the community with current health assets valued at over $2.5 million. Council currently owns, leases, maintains or/has facilitated the construction of;

• 3 medical centres housing three medical practices and 3 doctors • 3 medical accommodation units catering for 6 visiting medical professionals at a time • 1 House providing accommodation for a doctor and family • Provided 1/3 of the funding for construction of a 2 chair dental clinic within the MPS, a new day care facility and an accommodation unit as a joint project wit Federal and State Governments.

In addition to the non core functions of local government, Council employs 85 people in traditional local government roles and carries out the standard services of local government (budget $18-$19 million).

ISSUES

Infrastructure Renewal Like the NSW State Government, Gilgandra Shire Council has a backlog of major infrastructure renewal and replacement. Council’s general rate income is not sufficient to carry out the major redevelopment projects in the timeframes they are coming to the fore. Much of the infrastructure such as bridges, roads and town streets were built prior or just after WW2 and have reached their end of life now and require major works to meet todays expected service level. Government assistance such as timber bridge replacement schemes no longer exist and Council is force to borrow money to carry out the projects.

Roads Council roads are under more stress than at any point in the past. An increase in the size of trucks and other machinery is requiring roads to be constructed at a higher standard which has higher costs associated with renewal and replacement.

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Water and Sewer Each year more and more heavy maintenance is required to maintain the water and sewer networks. This puts financial pressure on Council to plan for major infrastructure upgrades such as new or improved treatments works. These major capital investments require co contribution from other levels of government to become a reality or increased maintenance to extend useful life.

Grant Funding Grants have become an important funding source to carry out essential community projects. Grant funding has become much more competitive and increasingly harder for smaller communities with limited resources to access.

An example of this is the RDAF. Meeting the guidelines and criteria of the grant requires extensive work such as feasibility studies or cost benefit analysis. Whilst this information is important, for many small communities such as Gilgandra it is not possible to invest up to $50,000 on an application. A second tier funding program is needed to allow smaller communities to access funding to achieve community infrastructure projects.

A more streamlined process or tier structure of grants in general (over and under 10,000 people) is needed to ensure access to grants for smaller communities.

Government Funding of Aged Care and Disability Services. The Federal and State Government currently and will in the future review the levels of funding for aged care and disability services. As council is heavily involved in these services any changes to the funding could have enormous impacts on Council’s ability to continue to manage the services. Council is looking for a longer term approach to funding that gives assurance to continue to invest and develop longer term plans for these services in our community. In addition to the funding council wants to see commitments and support for the retention of local management and stewardship of aged and disability services.

Mining and Coal Seam Gas Gilgandra Shire Council see the opening of the Cobbora Coal mine as one of the most influential projects in the region for the next 20 years. Gilgandra is located approximately 80km from the mine entrance and Council is keen to ensure that our community is informed any positive impacts such as increased employment for locals, attraction of new residents and opportunities is fully explored. There are potential negative impacts such as loss of staff from local businesses and a possible dramatic increase in housing and rental prices and Council is keen to play its part in limiting negative impacts, not only at a local level, but at a regional level.

Parts of the Gilgandra Shire are currently under Petroleum Exploration Licenses with testing already commenced for Coal Seam Gas. This issue is not unique to Gilgandra and will have potential over the next 10 years to have a greater impact on the Orana region. Gilgandra Shire sees both negative and positive impacts and is anxious to see State and regional leadership on this issue. In our research to date, like mining, it is those regions and communities that take a proactive role who have better economic and social outcomes for the community but also have a better relationship with extractive industries and are able to work together to minimise the negative impacts.

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Mid-Western Regional Council

Coal Growth There are 4 existing and 5 new proposed coal mining projects within a 65km of Mudgee. The growth in coal mining activities in this region is significant.

The expansion plans of the existing mines and the new projects will create more than 1,800 direct mine jobs in the next 4 years. The indirect employment impact is up to 3 times this (ie. up to 5,400 total new jobs).

The impact of the expansion of the coal industry will have a significant impact on the Mid-Western Regional Council area, and requires assistance from the State and Federal Governments to address the opportunities and challenges.

Population Growth in Mid-Western Region Given the rapid expansion of the coal mining industry in the Mid-Western Region, the NSW Government has commissioned an independent study to assess the impacts on local services and infrastructure.

The study estimates the population of the Mid-Western Region to reach 30,000 people by 2020. This is equivalent to a 30% population increase over the next 8 years (or annual average growth of 3.75%). This is extraordinary growth and will provide significant opportunities for business and employment in the Region. The report identifies the challenges and service shortfalls for the region which include the need for additional schools, childcare facilities, doctors, housing (including affordable housing), airport and road infrastructure upgrades.

It is important that the findings of this assessment are addressed by relevant State and Federal departments in co-operation with Mid-Western Regional Council.

Education – Preschools and Early Childhood Education The lack of preschool and early childhood education places is significant in the Mid-Western Region. All of the existing facilities in the region are full with long waiting lists. There are 334 places available for 0 to 4 year olds and 323 children on waiting lists at August 2012.

The issue in the Mid-Western Region is that not only are children missing out on access to quality early childhood education but that there are economic impacts due the lack of childcare places. These impacts include:

• providing a prohibitive barrier for families looking to the move to the Region; • providing a prohibitive barrier to women seeking to re-enter the workforce on a permanent or part-time basis after having a family; and • declining workforce participation rates for women.

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Further investment in preschools and early childhood education is required by all relevant stakeholders to address the critical shortages. There are also limited early intervention services available, and the Region has been identified as a high priority area for additional services in this area.

Doctors Using population benchmarks, the Mid-Western Region has a current shortage of 12 doctors. This will only be exacerbated with population growth. There are long waiting lists to get in to see a doctor in this Region.

A focused effort to recruit additional doctors for the Mid-Western Region should be a priority and requires a close working relationship for all stakeholders.

Roads The increased mining activities in the region are placing extreme pressure on our roads. The Ulan Road is a very good example of the impact that mining has within a region. There are 4,000 vehicles travelling along Ulan Road each day, which is more than the Newell Highway and yet it is the responsibility of Council to manage upgrades and maintenance (estimated at $32million + $1.5m annual maintenance).

Increased population will place further pressure on the local road network and requires further investigation of local traffic management and congestion issues.

The impact of mining places a significant financial burden on local Council. Financial assistance to address the infrastructure shortfalls is required. For example, Royalties for Regions funding should prioritise this infrastructure.

Airport The Aeropelican passenger service has recently been upgraded to provide 3 x return daily services between Mudgee and Sydney. The growth in the region is expected to increased significantly which will require up to 640 extra seats per week. This requires upgrades to strengthen and lengthen the runway, aeroplane parking, hangars, passenger terminals and car parking areas. Financial assistance to address the infrastructure shortfalls as a result of coal mining expansion is required. For example, Royalties for Regions funding should prioritise the infrastructure needs of the Mid-Western Region.

Housing The services assessment commissioned by the NSW Government found that an additional 5,000 lots of land are required to accommodate housing needs in the next 8 years. This demand for housing (which includes affordable housing) will place considerable pressure on Council to provide the infrastructure to service an additional 5,000 lots of land. This expansion of housing is unprecedented and driven by the growth of coal mining in the Region.

Financial assistance to address the infrastructure shortfalls as a result of coal mining expansion is

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required. For example, Royalties for Regions funding should prioritise the infrastructure needs of the Mid-Western Region.

Other New Developments As well as coal mining expansion, the Mid-Western Region has 6 wind farm proposals and 1 silver mine proposal for the Region. Each wind farm project includes between 70 and 110 wind turbine towers.

NBN Rollout in Mudgee This is expected to commence in Mudgee 2012. Mudgee is one of the first regional NSW locations to have the NBN rollout which creates significant local business and new investment opportunities.

Dining Out Courtesy MRTI

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Narromine Shire Council

Introduction Located in the heart of New South Wales between Dubbo and Nyngan, Narromine Shire covers an area of 5,224km² with a population of 6800 1 living in three urban centres of Narromine (3500), Trangie (800) and Tomingley (50) as well as the surrounding rural areas. The Shire is the 37th largest region by area in New South Wales and is 225 metres above sea level.

Narromine has grown to include citrus farming and agriculture as its major industries, along with grain crops, livestock, wool and cotton. The shire boasts the biggest lime orchard (The Lime Grove) in the southern hemisphere, is famous for Narromine Oranges, roses grown at Swanes Nursery, as well as home to thriving businesses such as Narromine Transplants, Enza Zaden, Grain Corp, Agrigrain and the “Trangie Agricultural Research Centre”.

Sports and Aviation play major roles in the culture of Narromine Shire. The aerodrome constructed after World War I, is the oldest country aero club in Australia, training over 2000 pilots in World War II. Proudly hosting the National Ultra Light Fly in for a number of years, the aerodrome is now home to the Sport Aircraft Association of Australia Inc (SAAA), and has seen a number of well known aviators such as Charles Kingsford Smith, Charles Ulm, Chuck Yeager and Nancy Bird Walton. In 2005 an Air Pageant featured the locally built Wright Flyer replica, flown by Col Paye and launched by the second man on the moon Buzz Aldrin. The present day building at the Aerodrome was opened in 2002 and houses the Aero Club, Gliding Club, a fully equipped conference area and the Narromine Aviation Museum.

Narromine is known as the “Gliding Capital of Australia”, is considered to be the best gliding area in Australia, and one of the three best in the world. With beautiful weather and thermals, along with no airspace restrictions, pilots from around the world visit regularly to participate in recreational flying, gliding and to take part in the National and State Gliding Championships. In 2015 the Gliding Club is to host the 8th Junior’s World Gliding Championship. This is an amazing achievement as it is the first time the event has been held outside of Europe.

In addition, Narromine is also called the “Town of Champions” with the birth of many famous Australian sporting personalities including former Olympic sprinter and Commonwealth Games medalist, Melinda Gainsford-Taylor, Cricketer Glenn McGrath (immortalized with a life size bronze statue in Tom Perry Park), Rugby League player David Gillespie, International Clay Target Shooting Champion Kevin Heywood, Captain of the Rugby Union Wallabies David Jansen, Target Shooter David Goodridge, National Rugby League player Justin Smith and International Rugby Union Representative Pat McCutcheon.

Major geographical features of the Shire include Goobang National Park, the Bogan River, the Macquarie River and several state forests. Features in Trangie include the Goan Waterhole. Trangie also has a number of historical remnants used to hide planes from the Japanese bombers in World War II.

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Opportunities

Industry Agriculture will continue to dominate the economy over the next ten years. In the irrigated agriculture sector, it is likely we will see some trend away from broadacre irrigated crops (cereals, maize, fodder) to more intensive, higher value irrigated crops (vegetables, fruit). A sign of this development is the planting of two new 40ha drip irrigated citrus orchards (for juice production), on irrigation farms that were formerly broadacre crops, in the past twelve months.

Apart from the potential to increase the economic value of production, this trend towards more intensive higher value crops has the potential to increase employment and stimulate the development of related packaging and processing facilities in the shire (which could also attract products from nearby shires as well).

Significant changes in grain marketing and handling are already occurring. These changes include the emergence of independent commercial grain exporters, less delivery to decentralised bulk terminals on branch rail lines, containerised packaging for delivery to niche markets (two such facilities operating in the shire), increased storage on farm and delivery to handlers/exporters spread throughout the year.

Narromine has the potential to develop as a significant node for receival of bulk grain delivered by road transport from not only Narromine Shire producers, but also producers from western and north western shires, to packagers / exporters based here – who then utilise the rail network for transport to port.

Mining The Tomingley Gold Project has been approved for development at Tomingley in the South of the Shire. This project will consist of both open cut and underground mining and will provide a significant economic benefit to the Shire.

Development Narromine Shire Council has attracted an IGA Supermarket to build a new supermarket in Narromine. Narromine Shire Council also has an Industrial Estate available for Industry.

Council is currently undertaking the development of an Aerodrome Strategic Plan to assess the potential for aviation industries and recreational users to grow the Narromine Aerodrome to a major Recreational Aviation centre in NSW.

Tourism Several factors are driving an increase in “grey nomad” type tourism – the financial crisis and the ageing population (see demographic change above). Narromine Shire is well positioned on or near major north / south and east / west highways. Development of improved signage and other information services, further development of unique attractions (Aviation Museum, fishing and other river recreation, gliding etc) and development of several riverside camping areas would support and capitalise on this trend.

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Issues

Transportation and Roads Network No major new transport (rail, road, air) infrastructure investments are foreshadowed in our region by either State or Federal Governments, although the proposed inland rail route from Melbourne to Brisbane has a preferred route through Narromine.

Narromine has the potential to develop as a significant node for receival of bulk grain delivered by road transport from not only Narromine Shire producers, but also producers from western and north western shires, to packagers / exporters based here – who then utilise the rail network for transport to port.

Flood Policy Review Narromine is located on a floodplain that doesn’t flood! To adjust the current flood policy Narromine Shire Council needs to undertake a review of current flood levels and the levee bank to ensure it is capable of controlling flood levels. This is holding back building development in Narromine due to additional costs associated with meeting the current flood policy levels that have not taken into account the extension to the Burrendong Dam at Wellington.

Council currently has approved land, serviced for building on, but developers are reluctant to take up the land until the flood levels issue is dealt with and resolved in conjunction with the NSW State Government.

Climate Change and Related Government Policies affecting Water Security CSIRO Climate Change modelling for the Macquarie Valley indicates possible average temperature increases of up to 2oC and surface water availability reduction of up to 16%, by 2040. There is widespread scepticism about these forecasts, although the 6 – 7 year recent history of negligible surface water availability for irrigation industries has given us a taste of the impact of significant “climate change” - be it a natural cycle or human induced. Added to this is the current and potential impact on industry and socio economic wellbeing in Narromine Shire, of the “buy-back” of both surface and ground water irrigation entitlements, ie government funded purchase of irrigation licence entitlements to improve environmental flows to the Macquarie Marshes and the Murray Darling Basin. Already approximately 15% of total licence entitlements in the Macquarie Catchment have been purchased from irrigators for these purposes. So, we could have permanent reductions in surface water availability of over 30% in the Shire.

Further changes in surface or ground water availability will: i. have significant, negative socio economic impacts on productivity, employment and business opportunities in our Shire; ii. drive some industry change – specifically a move from extensive irrigated cropping to more intensive, high value irrigated crops; iii. forced rationalisation and major infrastructure change in the four off-river irrigation schemes in Narromine Shire.

The Macquarie River Food and Fibre organisation and Council strongly believe that the stakeholders in the Council area and in the Macquarie River Valley have already “paid their dues” and provided water for the Murray Darling Basin needs and should be left alone.

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Walgett Shire Council

The Walgett Shire Local Government Area is located in the far north west of New South Wales and covers an area of 22,007 square kilometres, with an approximate population of 6,800. Walgett Shire borders with Queensland to the north, Moree Plains and Narrabri Councils to the east, Coonamble to the south and Brewarrina to the west.

The Shire is located on Gamilaroi country in the southern and eastern sector and to the north is on Yuwaalaraay country. Acknowledgement of the traditional occupiers of the land is displayed on signs along main roads entering into the Walgett Shire.

The Shire is geographically on the productive black-soil plains of New South Wales, part of which is in the Central Division and part in the Western Division. The North and North West of the Shire is opal bearing country, which is home to NSW state gemstone, the Black Opal.

Farming in Walgett provides an economic backbone for the region with the production of wool, cotton, beef cattle, fat lambs, sheep studs, cotton, chickpeas and its biggest industry wheat.

Just north of Walgett, on the road to Lightning Ridge, are the Walgett wheat silos which, when full, are the largest in the southern hemisphere.

Cotton is an ever growing agriculture product that is being processed initially at Cotton gins at Merrywinebone before being transported out to other market/processing facilities by rail.

Walgett Shire comprises thirteen towns, villages and hamlets spread throughout the Shire and the opal fields focused on the localities of Grawin, Glengarry and Sheepyards. Across the Shire each community has its own special and unique identity and this forms the basis of a growing tourism industry based on “outback type” themes.

Challenges and Opportunities Like any of the more rurally focused and isolated shires in Western NSW, Walgett Shire has a range of Challenges and Opportunities.

Social The Shire continues to focus on addressing the scarce employment opportunities, lack of entertainment, recreation and sporting activities for young people with an aim of making the communities within Shire some of the safest places to live and bring up families. The Shire has a diverse population base with some 28% of the population being of Aboriginal decent and the impact of middle European migration being evidenced by the fact that the second most common language spoken in the area is Serbian.

Economic The Shire is relatively small in population and large in area. As such there is an ever increasing need to expand existing or attract new industry to the are to provide employment and expand

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career opportunities, particularly for local youth. Tourism is the fastest expanding local industry, whilst employment in agriculture sector has recently been impacted by the increasing spread of local cotton cropping, opal mining has remained static pending the release of new opal prospecting areas. Most of the employment growth areas have been in the public sectors involving administration, community safety, education and training, health care and social welfare.

Environmental As identified in Council’s State of the Environment Report and the Catchment Action Plans, major challenges to the health of natural resources in the Shire include declining surface water quality, increasing demands on water quantity, declining health and abundance of native vegetation, invasive weeds, degradation of riparian and wetland ecosystems, declining biodiversity, deterioration of the soil resource and climate change. Added to this is the ever present threat of prolonged drought. Opportunities exist in addressing these challenges to achieve positive outcomes.

Council has also applied to increase the height of the Walgett Weir on the Barwon River by some 700mm as this will not only drought proof the local water supply and provide an range of environmental advantages, it will also serve to boost local tourism.

Infrastructure There are five river valleys running through the Shire. Action is currently being taken toupgrade water and sewerage supplies to each of the three major towns to provide a surety of supply for domestic and industrial purposes. Road infrastructure is also being upgraded as funding permits. The Shire is crisscrossed with three major State Highways. Other capital improvements planned for the area include beautification programmes for the main CBDs in major towns, upgrading of local sports facilities and the development of a central landfill facility to service a network of local waste transfer stations. Recycling opportunities are to be investigated in conjunction with the development of the new landfill facility to endeavour to establish some level of economies of scale, possibly in conjunction with neighbouring local government areas.

The standard of rural roads is being progressively improved, particularly on the flood plains in the central and southern parts of the Shire where the roads are impassable after rain, with a particular emphasis on school bus routes.

Planning to also upgrade some of the Shire’s aging built infrastructure is also underway as additional resources can be identified and sourced. This includes the provision of a new works depot facility strategically co-located with similar facilities for the SES, RFS and Weeds County Council near the Walgett airport which itself is also scheduled for major upgrading.

Opportunities Council sees major opportunities arising in the Shire from a fresh focus currently being developed on recognition as a sub-regional centre for commerce, industry, tourism and public administration. There are also opportunities to be explored in developing a regional freight hub for the export of grain and other agricultural commodities, establishing the Australian Opal Centre concept at Lightning Ridge and the creation of youth employment through a major local housing maintenance co-operative.

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Warren Shire Council

Warren Local Government Area is located on the Central West Slopes and Plains of NSW and has an area of 10,860 sq km (1,086,000 ha) of prime agricultural land with the Macquarie River and floodplain running the length of the LGA. Warren Shire has a population of approximately 2,800.

The wealth of the district is derived from a diversified pastoral and agricultural industry which includes sheep and cattle grazing, dryland grain farming and a vibrant irrigation industry. The Warren LGA is consistently one of the top five (5) agricultural producing LGA’s in New South Wales.

The town of Warren is the main service centre and provides outstanding facilities for its size. The community is serviced by sporting facilities which include town ovals, an attractive 18 hole golf course, squash courts, tennis courts, an Olympic sized swimming pool, gun club and Sporting and Cultural Centre. Cricket (indoor and outdoor), Rugby League, Rugby Union, Netball, Soccer, Hockey and Basketball are played. Warren Racecourse is considered one of the finest in rural New South Wales and is known as the “Randwick of the West”.

Two (2) resident doctors and a dentist are available as well as a Multi-Purpose Health Service with forty two (42) beds. An Ambulance Service is also based in Warren.

Educational facilities are continually developing and Warren has a K-12 Central School, Catholic Primary School, 50 place pre-school and. The Warren Shire Library offers several unique services and is the headquarters of the North Western Library. The Western Institute of TAFE College has a well- developed campus in Warren and offers a variety of courses.

The Warren Airport, situated approximately five (5) km from the town has a sealed runway of approximately 1,240 metres in length and an unsealed runway of approximately 1,200 metres. The airport has one terminal building as well as night landing which can be activated by pilots wishing to land at night.

Around 100km north of Warren is the Macquarie Marshes which is listed on the Ramsar Convention as a wetland area of international importance. Approximately 90% of the Macquarie Marshes is private land and the remaining 10% is managed by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Key Issues and Challenges Significant community challenges and issues identified in the Community Strategic Plan - ‘Warren Shire 2022’ are as follows:

Social • Lack of employment opportunities. • Decline in quality of essential services/infrastructure such as health, education and housing. • Decline in population and the relative ageing of the community. • Challenge of maintaining essential local services and ensuring these services continue to be

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provided locally. • The need to support young people and encourage their development.

Economic • The need to strengthen Shire’s key industry agriculture. • Investigation of and encouragement of other potentially viable industries such as tourism. • Decline in population and the corresponding reduction in the amount of skilled labour and businesses in the Shire. • Impact of climate change. • Impact of water policy – including the Murray Darling Basin Plan.

Infrastructure • Need for good transport networks including Shire roads – the maintenance of this important asset is a key challenge. • The need for the introduction of long-term planning into asset management procedures to ensure that future needs can be planned for and current infrastructure is supported.

Environmental • The potential impacts of climate change and water policy. • Management of waste in the Shire with no recycling program currently in place. • Need for ongoing management of water supply, drainage and sewerage in Warren, Nevertire and Collie. • Governance • The hollowing out of the population resulting in a trend towards an older, less skilled, more welfare dependent population which will increase the burden on existing community leaders and volunteers. • Ensuring the Council continues to remain strong and financially sound and is pro-active in the promotion and improvement of the community. • Long term governance and community leadership is vital for the future of Warren Shire. Leadership skills need to be fostered to encourage the development of future community leaders and volunteers within the community.

Warren City Courtesy Warren Shire Council

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Warrumbungle Shire Council

The Warrumbungle Shire is situated on the north western slopes and plains of NSW. It covers an area of 12,380 square kilometres and in 2012 an estimated population of 9,685 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2012). Only 53% of the population of the Shire live in our urban areas.

The Shire incorporates the townships of Coonabarabran, Baradine, Binnaway, Coolah, Dunedoo and Mendooran as well as several small villages such as Bugaldie, Cobbora, Goolhi, Kenebri, Leadville, Merrygoen, Neilrex, Purlewaugh, Rocky Glen, Uarbry, Ulamambri, Weetaliba and Yearinan.

Coonabarabran is the largest centre, providing regional retail, agricultural and business services and is home to Council’s main administration office.

The Shire boasts a broad range of cultural, sporting and recreational activities with quality education opportunities, schools and health services.

Warrumbungle Shire has a rich Aboriginal cultural heritage with the northern part being home to the Gamilaraay people while in the south ancestors are the Wiradjuri people. The nations of the Weilwan and Kawambarai (Werriri) come into the Shire on the western border. Indigenous history, traditions and culture are an important part of the Shire’s history. In 2012 the indigenous population was 7.9% of the Shire’s population.

The Warrumbungle Shire has a predominantly a rural based economy. The main industries include sheep and cattle farming, cropping as well as a busy tourist trade and some manufacturing. Much of the southern half of the Shire is underlain by potential coal resources in the Gunnedah Basin.

The Shire boasts three NSW state significant National Parks. The diversity of the landscape in between three distinctive conservation areas range from extensive plains to undulating hills. From the high basaltic plateau, high rainfall cool temperature forest and waterfalls of the Coolah Tops National Park in the east, to the rugged mountainous peaks of extinct volcanoes in the Warrumbungle National Park, west of Coonabarabran the onwards to the north in the extensive dry woodlands of the Pilliga Forest National Park.

The stunning night skies, formed by a combination of low pollution, very low humidity and limited cloud cover have drawn astronomers and researchers to Coonabarabran in their search for what lies beyond the confines of the visual night sky. Siding Spring Observatory, located 25kms from Coonabarabran is the site of a number of internationally owned and operated optical telescopes where major research has recorded amazing truths of the universe, supporting Coonabarabran’s claim to the name ‘Astronomy Capital of Australia’.

A number of highways and main roads traverse the Shire providing important transport and freight links with surrounding regional centres.

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Challenges For The Future

One of the important components of Integrated Planning and Reporting is the recognition that Councils and Communities do not exist in isolation. Like our counterparts in other levels of government we are all working towards achieving outcomes that better our quality of life.

Warrumbungle Shire 20 Year Community Strategic Plan recognises that the future of the Warrumbungle Shire will be shaped by some significant external factors, largely beyond the control of the Council and the community.

Our strategic planning recognises that the future of the Warrumbungle Shire will be shaped by some significant external factors, largely beyond the control of the Council and the community. These include:

• Population decline • Ageing population • Climate change • Contract workforce and skill shortages • Agricultural sector decline • Natural environment • Mining activities • Community and culture • Government cost shifting • Recreation and open space • ‘Tree change’ phenomenon • Local governance and finance • Local economy • New production technologies and skills • Rural and urban development • Advances in communications and IT • Public infrastructure and services • Access to commonwealth and state funds • Limited local government financial capacity • Increasing costs of services, facilities and maintenance

Our Vision is for Excellence in Local Government, while our Mission is to provide:

• Quality, cost effective services that will enhance our community’s lifestyle, environment, opportunity and prosperity. • Infrastructure and services which meet the social and economic needs and aspirations of the community now and in the future. • Effective leadership and good governance, by encouraging teamwork, through a dedicated responsible well trained workforce.

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Council Values

Honesty Frank and open discussion, taking responsibility for our actions

Integrity Behaving in accordance with our values

Fairness Consideration of the facts and a commitment to two way communication

Compassion Working for the benefit and care of our community and the natural environment

Respect To ourselves, colleagues, the organisation and the community listening actively and responding truthfully

Transparency Open and honest interactions with each other and our community

Passion Achievement of activities with energy, enthusiasm and pride

Trust Striving to be dependable, reliable and delivering outcomes in a spirit of goodwill

Opportunity To be an enviable workplace creating pathways for staff development

The Breadknife & Observatory Coonabarabran Courtesy David Kirkland

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Wellington Shire Council

Summary of LGA

Wellington Local Government Area is located within the Central West Slopes and Plains of New South Wales, with its major suburban centre of Wellington located 362 kilometres north of Sydney at the junction of the Macquarie and Bell Rivers. The Wellington Council area is bounded by Warrumbungle Shire in the north, the Mid-Western Regional Council area in the east, the Cabonne Council area in the south, and Dubbo City in the west.

The LGA includes the vibrant villages of Elong Elong, Euchareena, Geurie, Mumbil and Stuart Town, and encompasses a total land area of about 4,100 square kilometres.

Rural land is used primarily for agriculture, particularly in the production of grains, lamb and beef. Agriculture and related activities are Wellington’s major industries, with more than $56 million contributed to the local economy annually through cropping, wool, beef and prime lamb production.

Wellington’s growing tourism industry is driven by key attractions such as the world-renowned Wellington Caves Complex (including Phosphate Mine and Japanese Gardens), Lake Burrendong, Burrendong Botanic Garden and Arboretum, Mt Arthur Reserve, several wineries and boutique galleries.

The original inhabitants of the Wellington area were the Wiradjuri Aboriginal people. European settlement dates from the 1820’s when a convict settlement was established. Population was minimal until the 1840’s, with substantial growth occurring in the late 1800’s and into the early 1900’s as a result of gold mining and the opening of the railway line. The most significant development occurred post war. In recent years population has stabilized with underlying growth of approximately 0.3%.

There are currently five proposed major projects with the potential to directly impact on Wellington’s population and economic outcomes within the LGA. These include:

• ERM’s approved Gas Fired Power Station • The proposed Cobbora Coal Project • The proposed Dubbo Zirconia Project • The proposed Uungala Wind Farm • The proposed Bodangora Wind Farm

The proposed projects, which have a combined capital investment value of $4.2 billion have the potential to create up to 1,250 construction jobs and 845 ongoing full-time positions.

Furthermore, within a thirty-five kilometre radius of Wellington a total of twenty-seven Exploration Licences are currently held. A number of these explorations have significant economic potential, and strong short to medium term development prospects.

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Issues The main issues facing the Wellington Local Government area are:

• The quality, maintenance and establishment of our connecting infrastructure to support community growth and access to opportunity. In particular:

• The sealing of the last section of MR353 has been a priority for council for a number of years, together with improvements to other connecting roads, and urban road infrastructure • Improvements to access to broadband across the LGA • Rail and other forms of freight, together with public transport which connects us to our surrounding communities

• The quality, maintenance and establishment of our tourism infrastructure to support continued growth in that sector. In particular:

• Improvements to our tourism assets, including Lake Burrendong, Mt Arthur Reserve and the Wellington Caves Complex, to enable those assets to meet the expectations and demands of the tourism market • Improvements to our streetscape to encourage tourists to stop in Wellington, including improvements to caravan parking and access to services within the town of Wellington

• The attraction of industry and the development of employment opportunities within the LGA. In particular:

• The need to improve and diversify employment options as both an attraction and retention strategy • The need to attract industry to support ongoing diversification of the local economy

• Financial resources, and in particular supporting improvements to critical infrastructure through:

• Growing of the rates base • Increasing our share of state and federal funding • Negotiating Voluntary Planning Agreements with the proponents of major projects which support infrastructure improvements

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• Supporting population growth and wealth, and in particular:

• Developing employment and education opportunities which assist in the retention of our existing community (and particularly young people) and assists in the attraction of new residents • Developing community assets, recreation and social opportunities to support the maintenance of a socially cohesive community

Wellington Courtesy Wellington Shire Council

Regional Plan 2012 -2020 Level 1, Suite 4, 47-59 Wingewarra Street PO Box 1357 | Dubbo NSW 2830 Ph: 1800 851 488 | 02 6885 1488 | Fax: 02 6885 1468 www.rdaorana.org.au [email protected] ABN: 28 264 534 206