Information Pack MANAGER PROPERTY SERVICES CONTACT Gemma Sheridan | Talent Consultant, Leading Roles
M: 0407 009 243
E: [email protected] www.leadingroles.com.au
ABN: 53 142 460 357
Privacy Information: Leading Roles is collecting your personal information in accordance with the Information Privacy Act for the purpose of assessing your skills and experience against the position requirements. The information you provide in your application will only be used by employees of Leading Roles. Your information will be provided to authorised Council Ofcers, including Human Resources and the relevant selection panel members. But it will not be given to any other person or agency unless you have given us permission, or we are required by law. CONTENTS
THE PERSON AND THE POSITION 6
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA 9
SELECTION AND SHORTLISTING 10
ORGANISATIONAL CHART 11
COUNCIL VISION 12
OUR STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS 12
OUR COUNCILLORS 15
OUR SHIRE 17
BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY 18
EDUCATION 22
LIFESTYLE 23
LOCAL FESTIVALS AND EVENTS 24
SPORT IN OUR SHIRE 25
OTHER TOWNS 28
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 3 A NOTE FROM THE General Manager
4 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services Narrabri Shire has taken the first steps into an unprecedented period of growth and never seen before levels of investment. It is exciting times!
We have a strong and proud agricultural history that has water meter fleet has operated wirelessly for a number seen numerous major industries develop and expand of years now and we have expended this network to in the Shire, the latest being a greater than $90 million include a series of remote weather stations, and we have redevelopment of the Cotton Seed Distributors site implemented an online training platform that integrates encompassing processing plants with world leading with the HR modules of TechnologyOne. We have built technology, laboratory, administration complex and award winning state of the art water supply systems expanded seed storage facilities all located on the encompassing solar power and optical communications. outskirts of Wee Waa. We have established and continue to grow our own private optical fibre network within Narrabri which In the next 7 years Narrabri Shire is slated for in excess of includes our 225Mb/225Mb internet connection available $7 billion dollars worth of investment in State Significant to Council sites. projects alone, these projects include; 2x Inland Rail projects (N2N & N2NS), the Vickery mine, an expanded This commitment to innovation and progressiveness was Narrabri mining project, numerous solar projects, the formally recognised and rewarded with Council receiving Narrabri Gas Project and not forgetting Council’s own the prestigious AR Bluett Award in 2018; and since then as Northern NSW Inland Port (N2IP) development. you will see we have not rested on our laurels!
At the peak, these projects together are estimated to Council prides itself on its investment in infrastructure, this realise over 2,500 construction based jobs per annum strong and committed investment is forecast to continue located in the Shire over a period of in excess of 4 years – with numerous exciting projects in the early master but the real kicker is the potential for the realisation over planning and design stages, the recently changed the next 7 years of 1,000 ongoing operational jobs in the funding arrangements for the Resources for Regions Shire. Couple that with Narrabri having been chosen by program will see a constant annual funding stream the State Government as a Special Activation Precinct available to Council, amongst other funding streams leveraging of the recently approved Narrabri Gas Project, such as our negotiated VPAs and the potential for a $120 it really is an exciting time for Narrabri Shire. This precinct million Community Benefit fund. will create jobs, attract businesses and investors, support We are planning and building for growth and significant local industries and fuel economic development. This is investment and the Property Services team is vital to all part of the NSW Government’s plan to ensure Narrabri Council’s success. Top of the priority list for the new Shire is well placed to grow and meet it’s future Manager is to grow their team to ensure that it is economic needs across a range of industries. responsive to the changing needs of the organisation. Narrabri Shire Council is no stereotypical If these opportunities are something you can see yourself regional/rural council. We pride ourselves on being a part of then I encourage you to make contact being innovative and progressive. Inside the and seriously consider yourself for this role; opportunities organisation we have invested heavily in our like this do not come around often! IT platforms; we have recently completed the implementation of TechnologyOne with the aim of leveraging this platform as our - Stewart Todd, General Manager core central information system, our entire
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 5 THE PERSON AND THE POSITION
This is a key role in Council and is responsible for the management and coordination of property acquisitions, construction, disposals, leasing and maintenance programs and property insurance ensuring relevant legislation, standards and Council policies are met.
THE PERSON The constant themes required in the skillset for this position are: professionalism, integrity, teamwork and innovation.
You will have the professional skills to enable you to perform at the manager level of a regional council. You will display the ability to ensure you can lead, mentor, and motivate your staf.
THE DESIRED SKILLS AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES OF THE MANAGER PROPERTY SERVICES INCLUDE:
• You will be a community-minded person and be • Sets high standards – for self and others – and takes aware of the requirements of residents in country a continuous improvement approach. NSW. • Strong commitment to quality customer service and • You will have a strong understanding of service delivery. contemporary property management. • Accountable personally and holds others • Models safety at all times, without exception. appropriately to account.
• Well-developed leadership skills, with a proven • Someone who can performance manage efectively record of achievement through personal leadership. and constructively - with appropriate performance setting, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting. • The ability to bring the best out in others and to model Council’s Values. • Ensures co-operation, co-ordination, and communication across the whole of Council is given • Integrity and loyalty beyond reproach. priority. • Contribution to strategy and priority setting, with • Self-motivated person who can deliver and has the self-discipline to stick to agreed priorities. capacity to inspire and support the team to deliver • Sees the big picture and takes a whole of Council on agreed outcomes. approach - someone who can bring new ideas and • Someone who sees respectful challenge as positive the capacity to see these through to fruition. and who is willing to have debate and discussions, • Politically astute – someone who acts as a quality then own team decisions. professional in a political environment – the ability to understand the broader political implications and issues without interfering with them.
6 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services TOTAL REMUNERATION PACKAGE (TRP) An attractive package will be ofered based on the skills, abilities and experience the preferred Manager will bring to the role.
OTHER EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS As an employee of Narrabri Shire Council you can access numerous additional employment benefits, including access to generous salary packaging.
Benefits can include, amongst others:
• Leaseback vehicle
• Rent 50% private or 100% for employer supplied
• Mortgage interest
• Household fuel: power and gas
• Holiday travel
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 7 KEY CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
The position presents both challenges and opportunities and we need a Manager who can make this happen.
OPPORTUNITIES • Team leadership focused on employee performance.
• Develop and implement new frameworks and policies.
• Huge investment in the region from public and private sector.
CHALLENGES • Prioritising and managing high volume of work.
• Time sensitive projects.
• Negotiating with the local community.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Negotiate and manage acquisition and disposal processes (including leases and easements) to conclusion ensuring Council’s strategic objectives are supported and future needs protected and optimised.
• Coordinate the maintenance and control of Council’s depots, saleyards and caravan parks.
• Manage the Narrabri Airport to maintain aerodrome certification, aerodrome serviceability, safety, construction, and maintenance standards and ensure compliance with relevant legislation, regulations, policy, and the Aerodrome Manual.
• Lead the development and monitoring of the organisation’s property risk management services in accordance with operationally feasible best practice.
WORKFORCE LEADERSHIP • Embrace and model Council’s Corporate Values, policies and procedures.
• Efectively communicate with, lead, develop and motivate staf.
• Manage employee performance.
• Provide accurate and timely information and advice to the Director Corporate and Community Services.
• Ensure awareness of management standards, industry reform and innovation.
• Lead the development and implementation of key programs and projects to achieve the Council’s and community’s vision for the Shire.
8 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services RESOURCES • Compliance with government acts, regulations and procedures.
• Develop, review and implement framework, policies and strategic plans for Council’s properties.
• Develop and manage an annual schedule of works for Council’s properties.
• Develop, implement and monitor an efective property risk management system across the organisation.
RESULTS • Efcient management Council’s portfolio of land and buildings, including The Crossing Theatre, Shire libraries, saleyards and the Visitor Information Centre.
• Compliance with all government acts, regulations and procedures, relating to animal welfare and safe operations of the Narrabri Saleyards.
• Oversee management and maintenance of Council’s land register and Crown Lands management systems.
• Ensure activities comply with relevant legislation, standards, policies and guidelines relevant to property management and caravan parks.
• Formulate, implement, control, monitor and report on performance against Council’s adopted budget, as relevant to the position.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA
Within the application you are required to provide a response to the following Key Selection Criteria:
• Previous experience in a similar role, delivering end-to-end management of property assets, from acquisition to disposal.
• Demonstrated thorough knowledge of legislation, codes, standards, practices and guidelines associated with acquisition and disposal of property.
• Experience of managing an equivalent sized team, including the financial, human, technology and physical assets and resources of the organisation.
• Strong financial, analytical and reporting skills including risk identification and management. Sound planning and project management skills are also essential.
• Qualification in a relevant field, and/or equivalent experience directly applicable to the position.
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 9 RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced professionals for the position of Manager Property
Services at Narrabri Shire Council. This information pack will assist you to understand the requirements of the
position and the application/selection process.
For further information about Narrabri Shire Council, please visit our website.
HOW TO APPLY
Please submit your application via the Leading Roles website.
Please upload:
• Your CV
• A covering letter addressing the key selection criteria.
RECRUITMENT TIMELINE Application Period: Monday 17 May 2021 to Monday 7 June 2021
Applications close: 5pm Monday 7 June 2021
Initial Assessment: Week commencing Monday 7 June 2021
Panel interviews with Council: Week commencing Monday 14 June 2021
*Note these timeframes are indicative only and may change subject to the outcomes of the recruitment process, council staf and candidate availability.
APPLICATION ASSESSMENT, SHORTLISTING AND COUNCIL INTERVIEWS
Leading Roles and the council will determine a shortlist of suitable candidates, and will arrange interviews with
council’s interview panel, depending on candidate and council staf availability.
The council may require their preferred candidates to undergo psychometric assessment to assist in understanding
the candidate’s fit for the role and organisation, working preferences and attributes. Following selection of a
preferred candidate the council may require a number of further checks including reference checks, criminal history
checks and medical assessments.
You must be an Australian Citizen or hold the appropriate visa to work in Australia to apply for this role. Leading
Roles will undertake checks to confirm your right to work in Australia at ofer stage.
10 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services ORGANISATIONAL CHART
Narrabri Shire Council is consistently reviewing its workforce requirements to adequately resource and deliver essential community services and infrastructure across the Shire. Maintaining a balanced and professional workforce allows Council to improve its service and infrastructure provision and create opportunities for employees to develop their professional experience and expertise. Council will continue to review its organisational structure to ensure it aligns with service level requirements to meet community needs.
MANAGER PROPERTY SERVICES
PROPERTY OFFICER
BUILDING AND MAINTENANCE AIRPORT COORDINATOR COORDINATOR
MAINTENANCE TRADES AIRPORT AND DEPOT OFFICER ASSISTANT
MAINTENANCE TRADES OFFICER
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 11 COUNCIL
MAYOR
GENERAL MANAGER
CORPORATE AND INFRASTRUCTURE PEOPLE, STRATEGY COMMUNITY SERVICES DELIVERY AND PLANNING
TOURISM AND COMMUNITY WATER SERVICES DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT
INFORMATION SERVICES FLEET SERVICES STRATEGIC PLANNING
FINANCIAL SERVICES PARKS AND OPEN SPACES ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
PROPERTY SERVICES ROAD SERVICES HUMAN RESOURCES
COMMUNITY RELATIONS DESIGN SERVICES CORPORATE PLANNING AND RISK
CULTURAL FACILITIES PROJECTS AND ASSETS
WASTE SERVICES
12 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services COUNCIL VISION
“Narrabri Shire will be a strong and vibrant regional growth centre providing a quality living environment for the entire Shire community”.
Narrabri Shire Council is a dynamic and progressive organisation across all sectors that it administers. It has stafng levels of in excess of 185 professionals and looks after a population of 14,000 across 13,000 square kilometres.
Narrabri Shire Council was awarded the 2018 AR Bluett Memorial Award in recognition of being the most progressive Council in the state. The AR Bluett Memorial Award is “the greatest accolade a council can achieve” and “the pinnacle of local government achievement”.
COUNCIL’S VALUES Narrabri Shire Council’s Values (ILCARE) are at the very core of what we do and help build and maintain our family friendly, cohesive and progressive culture.
Our values guide our behaviour, how we go about our work, how we engage with each other and our customers, the choices we make and how we spend our time. Our values should be reflected in our everyday actions and decisions and by all employees, regardless of their position and whether they are with us for a short time or long-term career.
OUR STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS
OUR FUTURE DIRECTIONS Our Community Strategic Plan is based on four key Strategic Directions. Together, they provide a strong foundation for planning the social, environmental, economic and civic leadership outcomes for our Shire with the purpose of achieving our shared vision and strategic directions.
These Strategic Directions align with our Community Vision. They also recognise that all our communities share similar aspirations, including a safe and inclusive place to live, a sustainable environment, opportunities for employment and tourism, as well as proactive leadership and essential service and infrastructure delivery.
Under each Strategic Direction are a number of Strategic Objectives, and for each Strategic Objective are a series of Strategies and Actions which demonstrate Narrabri Shire’s focus for the next 10 years.
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 13 Strategic direction
OUR VISION A strong and vibrant regional growth centre providing a quality living environment for the entire Shire community.
Theme 1: OUR SOCIETY Strategic Direction 1: Safe, Inclusive and Connected Community A safe, supportive community where everyone feels welcomed, valued and connected.
Theme 2: OUR ENVIRONMENT Strategic Direction 2: Environmentally Sustainable and Productive Shire Maintaining a healthy balance between our natural and built environments.
Theme 3: OUR ECONOMY Strategic Direction 3: Progressive and Diverse Economy A strong, diverse economy that attracts, retains and inspires business, industry and tourism growth.
Theme 4: OUR CIVIC LEADERSHIP Strategic Direction 4: Collaborative and Proactive Leadership Working pro-actively together to achieve our shared vision with strong strategic direction.
14 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services
Corporate values
Integrity Ensuring transparency and honesty in all our activities.
Leadership Providing guidance and direction to our community and our people.
Customer Focus Delivering prompt, courteous and helpful services and being responsive to the community’s changing needs.
Accountability Accepting our responsibility for the provision of quality services and information.
Respect Treating everyone with courtesy, dignity and fairness.
Excellence Being recognised for providing services, programs and information which consistently meet and exceeds standards.
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 15 OUR COUNCILLORS
Ordinary Council Meetings are held monthly on the fourth Tuesday of the month commencing at 1:00pm and are held in Chamber within the Narrabri Shire Administration Building. There is a total of 185 full time staf plus additional seasonal and part time workers at Council. The Council’s Operational Expenditure Budget for 2020/2021 is $48 million with a Capital Expenditure Budget of $34 million. Narrabri Shire Council has a total of nine (9) Councillors. One (1) Councillor position is currently vacant, with Council determining to carry the vacancy through to the next ordinary election.
Mayor Ron Campbell Deputy Mayor Cr Cameron Staines
Councillor Councillor Councillor Maxine Booby Lloyd Finlay Cathy Redding
Councillor Councillor Robert Kneale Councillor Ron Campey Annie McMahon
16 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services Bellata Northern Territory
Queensland Edgeroi Wee Waa Western Australia
South Pilliga Brisbane Narrabri Australia
Narrabri New South Region Perth Wales Baan Baa Newcastle Sydney Gwabegar Boggabri Victoria
Tas
OUR SHIRE
Narrabri Shire is conveniently located halfway between Narrabri Shire is an exciting area of regional New South Brisbane and Sydney. It is two and a half hours from the Wales with plenty to ofer anyone wishing to pursue a Queensland border and is well serviced by road, rail and vibrant and busy country lifestyle. The expansive blue air. The Shire’s largest town of Narrabri is positioned on sky, stunning mountain ranges, scenic water ways and the crossroads of the Newell and Kamilaroi Highways. fresh air will encourage you to explore and share your experiences from this diverse area. Narrabri Shire has a population of some 14,000 residents and covers an area of around 13,000 square kilometres. You will find the conveniences of city living within Narrabri It is located in the heart of the Namoi Valley in the North Shire. There are modern cafés and restaurants as well West slopes and plains of New South Wales. The town as a state-of-the-art theatre complex bringing the latest of Narrabri is the administrative centre of the Shire. Set movies and live performances to the community. There is against the backdrop of the Nandewar Ranges and on a growing appreciation within the conference market of the banks of the Namoi River. Narrabri Shire’s facilities ofering professional convention and workshop services to local, national and international businesses.
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 17 BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY
Narrabri Shire has a number of approved and under assessment State Significant Projects that will see in excess of $7 billion dollars invested into the Narrabri Shire and bring thousands of jobs during construction; we have commenced planning to ensure the Shire capitalises on this investment but also that the liveability and social fabric of Narrabri Shire is retained.
NORTHERN NSW INLAND PORT The Northern NSW Inland Port (N2IP) is strategically located to maximise the converging benefits of critical infrastructure such as rail, water, electricity, roads and telecommunications.
Council has recently finalised the purchase of 240 hectares of land. Due to the significant business interest since the launch of the N2IP prospectus in September 2019, additional options to purchase a further 134 hectares on two adjoining properties have been entered into. The combined 374 hectares will make N2IP, the premier industrial and logistics hub development in North West NSW.
The developed N2IP strategic business case, identified 1,000 potential jobs. With the additional land options the potential job creation could increase to 1,500, which will attract further economic growth and diversity to the Shire.
See our most recent updates at n2ip.com.au
18 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services INLAND RAIL HELIDON GOWRIE Inland Rail is a once-in-a-generation project connecting
CALVERT regional Australia to domestic and international markets. It will complete the ‘spine’ of the national freight network NORTH STAR between Melbourne and Brisbane via regional Victoria, NARRABRI New South Wales and Queensland. It’s the largest freight rail infrastructure project in Australia and is expected to be operational in 2024-2025. NARROMINE Narrabri Shire sits between two (2) Inland Rail projects, PARKES Narromine to Narrabri (N2N) and Narrabri to North Star (N2NS). The combined capital costs of these two projects ILLABO STOCKINBINGAL is approximately $1.3 billion. Council has been working with Inland Rail, construction companies and contractors
ALBURY WODONGA to maximise the benefits for Narrabri Shire through the engaging of local businesses, direct and indirect employment and training of locals. TOTTENHAM
NARRABRI GAS PROJECT Santos’ Narrabri Gas Project could supply NSW homes, small businesses, major industries and electricity generators with up to half the state’s natural gas needs and bring substantial economic benefits to Narrabri and the region. The Narrabri Gas Project is classified as a strategic energy project and has a capital investment value of $3.6 billion and will create 1,300 jobs during construction and 200 jobs during operations. The Narrabri Gas Project was recommended for approval by the NSW Planning Department and approved by the Independent Planning Commission.
AMMONIUM NITRATE MANUFACTURING FACILITY Council has been in detailed discussions and negotiations with the Perdaman Group. The Perdaman Group are proposing to develop a $1.4 billion ammonium nitrate based derivative manufacturing facility. Operationally, this business will employ 100 direct staf and indirectly another 100 will be employed in the wider community. Perdaman is a downstream operator and therefore needs the upstream product that would be sourced from the Narrabri Gas Project. Council has entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Perdaman’s for them to develop their facility within the Northern NSW Inland Port.
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 19 Approved
Proposal
Silverleaf Solar Farm
Wee Waa Solar Farm Narrabri South Solar Farm
SOLAR FARMS Narrabri Shire is in discussions with three (3) large scale solar farm operators. Two of which are substantial international operators. The 3 solar farms proposed for Narrabri Shire would generate 230 megawatts of power. The total capital expenditure for these 3 solar farms is approximately $270 million. The construction workforce required would be 200 with each of the solar farms taking about 12 months to construct. Operationally, about a dozen staf are required with the project life for each solar farm being 35 years.
COUNTRY UNIVERSITIES CENTRE The Country Universities Centre North West has been set up to allow students in regional communities to participate in tertiary education to achieve their academic aspirations. The diference between a Country Universities Centre and correspondence or on-line courses is that students have access to supervised facilities including high- speed technology, tutorial and mentoring support, and a network of like-minded students to create a ‘campus like’ environment within their own local community.
20 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services COMMERCE Narrabri Shire is a modern regional growth centre traditional agriculture base to coal mining and gas encompassing a strong business community without the extraction and exploration with ancillary business ofering stresses and pressures of a city environment. Not only a range of employment opportunities for the Shire. Our does it have a substantial agricultural base, but also a population represents 7.2% of the people in the Northern prosperous resources and vibrant retail sector. Substantial Inland Region, whilst reflecting 9.3% of total wage output business expansion and investment can be reality in the in which businesses can capture in local spend. Narrabri Shire with inexpensive overheads, skilled and In the past five years our Gross Regional Product (GRP) young labour force and appealing quality of life. has increased by 79% to $1.9 billion. This growth is set Narrabri Shire commercial rent is valued between $65 to continue with the construction of the Inland Rail, - $365 per square metre, compared to $675 per square development of the Northern NSW Inland Port (N2IP), metre per annum, in metro counterpart CBDs. other state significant developments and our strategic geographic position providing the ideal location for The retail sectors in each town of the Shire continue to businesses looking to benefit from long term supply chain strengthen and diversify, creating dynamic shopping commitments. The combination of these factors place experiences, bringing city pleasures to the country. Narrabri Shire far ahead of its regional counterparts in Positioned for growth, the area has diversified from its regards to economic opportunities and lifestyle potential.
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT Set against the backdrop of the Nandewar Ranges and threatened species including on the banks of the Namoi River, Narrabri is an energetic bats, birds, wallabies and quolls. regional centre ofering a wonderful selection of shops, The National Park is the unique restaurants, museums and a large array of tourist and only home for our native attractions. (and very shy) hot pink slug! Which often appears after rain. From the 1,512m summit of Mt Kaputar, 52km east of Narrabri, you can be treated to panoramic views Sawn Rocks, part of the Mt Kaputar encompassing a staggering ten percent of NSW. Explore National Park is located 36km east of the rugged island of wilderness that is the Mt Kaputar Narrabri along the Killarney Gap Road. From the carpark National Park, an ancient footprint left behind by a series Sawn Rocks is accessible via a 750m walking track of volcanic eruptions between 17 and 21 million years ago. (disability accessible) that meanders through the tall Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, bushwalker, eucalyptus, figs and ferns. The unusual phenomenon is camper or simply seeking a little solitude, prepare to be the result of slow and even cooling of molten rock, which spellbound by the grandeur of this landscape of lava enabled individual crystals within the creek to align terraces and volcanic plugs. perfectly with each other. Some of our other natural wonders include Waa Gorge, Ricky Creek Glacial Area, The National Park protects a wide variety of plant Yarrie Lake, Dripping Rock and in the south of the Shire communities, including semi-arid woodlands, wet the Pilliga Forest, the largest remnant temperate forest in eucalyptus forests and subalpine heaths. It is home to a eastern Australia. host of animal species and provides a haven for many
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 21 EDUCATION
Education for your children is an important family decision and the key to unlocking a world of potential and possibilities for your children’s future. Within Narrabri Shire there is a cohesive group of 14 public and private primary schools ofering great teaching and learning opportunities. Narrabri Shire excels in academic, sporting and cultural pursuits shaping excellent young citizens for the community. We have an excellent array of childcare and children’s services available for the youngest members of our community. Childcare services and playgroups exist in Narrabri, Wee Waa and Boggabri with some restricted services available in outlying villages.
PRIMARY SECONDARY St Francis Xavier’s School Narrabri High School
Narrabri Public School Wee Waa High School
Narrabri West Public School TERTIARY St Joseph’s School Community College - Northern Inland Namoi Valley Christian School TAFE New England Wee Waa Public School; Country Universities Centre North West plus others.
22 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services BUSINESS IN NARRABRI
Families, children, youth, and retirees are all well catered There is a wide range of real estate available to live in for with high quality health services, excellent schooling, or invest. Housing options range from heritage style post school education pathways, a wide range of sporting cottages to larger more modern homes and townhouses. facilities and great community facilities. For retires or families looking for a small piece of paradise there is lifestyle acreage available on the outskirts of Hospitals are located in the three largest towns of Narrabri, Narrabri close to Mt Kaputar with many blocks enjoying Boggabri and Wee Waa. The Shire ofers a wide range of spectacular views of the mountain ranges. A smaller private and public allied and community health services more quite and rural lifestyle can be experienced in the including Physiotherapy, and Chiropractic, Occupational smaller villages of Bellata, Edgeroi, Baan Baa, Gwabegar Health, Counselling, Speech Pathology, Palliative Care, and Pilliga. Aboriginal Care and other assorted services.
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 23 LOCAL FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
NOSH NARRABRI is a biennial food and beverage festival, held in Narrabri. Nosh aims to showcase products produced by local growers, food creators and beverage makers: promoting sustainable food production, gathering our community together to celebrate the creativity and talent of others, and inspiring people to support local. Nosh Narrabri began as Nosh on the Namoi in 2003, as a small festival to showcase goods from local producers of fine food and wine. The festival showcases products as diverse as olives, ice cream, beer, wine, crayfish, smoked trout, gin, oils, beef, herbal tea, locally produced pasta, preserves, chicken, oysters, preserves, condiments, caterers and restaurants.
THE BOGGABRI DROVERS’ CAMPFIRE has become a much anticipated feature for caravanners, motor home owners and travellers along Australia’s highways and byways. The event was the brainchild of Lion Geof Eather and was developed with the support of the Boggabri Lions Club. The Boggabri Lions Club prepare a wonderful program to keep attendees entertained; including tours of our local area and lots of activities at the showground. The evening is when everyone comes together around the campfire. The array of night time entertainment is sure to prove to be enjoyable and a great way to have a lot of laughs and meet new friends!
Since 1933, THE WEAN AMATEUR PICNIC RACES has been one of the historic meeting places of North West NSW. As more and more picnic clubs from that era pass into history, it is also one of the few functioning examples left of how previous generations used to entertain themselves. Set in a magnificent bush location, away from any major centre, faithfully maintained as built, it is a wonderful piece of living history. The remarkable thing about Wean, is that, even after all this time, it is still performing the purpose it was built for. As a great day out, for family and friends alike.
Wean has always been a favoured destination for tour buses and aircraft. With a breathtaking bush setting, spacious grounds, its own landing strip and a jovial and festive atmosphere, it is one of Australia’s living historical icons.
24 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services SPORT IN OUR SHIRE
Narrabri Shire boasts a large selection of sporting clubs and groups that help to build stronger, healthier, happier and safer communities. We continuously advocate and support projects to strengthen our communities through sport and recreation. Narrabri Shire caters for all age groups and on any weekend, you will find residents enthusiastically involved in sports of all kinds, including:
• AFL • Lawn Bowls • Soccer
• Rugby Union • Cricket • Dancing & Gymnastics
• Rugby League • Clay Target Shooting • Swimming
• Tennis • Little Athletics • Golf
• Netball • Polocrosse • Fishing, amongst many others.
There are many opportunities for new residents to become part of our sporting culture through participation in our many sporting clubs and groups. Some of our fantastic local initiatives include Narrabri Riding for the Disabled, Namoi Bushman’s Carnival and Narrabri Parkrun.
In 2001, Narrabri Shire was named “Australia’s Sportiest Town” by Channel 9’s “Today Show”, as a result of the large number of Shire residents who have represented their sport at a state, national and international level. Over 110 Australian representatives and champions showcasing 44 sports were either born in the Narrabri Shire or started their sporting career here. The awarding of the honour of Australia’s Sportiest Town was made at the time on live television by Channel 9 presenter Tracy Grimshaw.
In 2011, Narrabri Shire Council in co-operation with Channel 9 constructed Narrabri Shire Sporting Wall of Fame to make a permanent record of the achievements of the town and district sportsmen and women including those who were part of the original honour bestowed upon the town in 2001.
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 25 HISTORY The Kamilaroi (pronunciation: Gam–ill–a–roy) people Wee Waa, the oldest town in the Namoi Valley, was were the first inhabitants of the Narrabri Region. Radiating proclaimed in 1847, followed by Narrabri and Boggabri from Narrabri, their land extends north to Goondiwindi, in 1860. The settlers ventured across the Liverpool Plains west to Lightning Ridge and south to Quirindi. Scar to the Boggabri, Narrabri and Wee Waa districts, ‘niver– trees on the Wee Waa/Narrabri road, bora rings on Mt niver’ country, as it was known by aboriginals. Kaputar, a sandstone baby washing area, and sandstone Bridges were built over Narrabri Creek in 1877 and over rubbings in the Pilliga forest attest to their presence. the Namoi in 1879. The railway arrived at Narrabri West History credits explorers Sir Thomas Mitchell and Allan in 1882 and a settlement began to develop around it. Cunningham with the honour of opening the way to the Narrabri was declared a municipality in 1883. North West plains, to the area that is now known as the Narrabri Region.
26 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services NARRABRI This bustling town is the largest in the are spoilt for choice with the range and markets specialise in locally Shire and the focal point for business, of shopping and services available grown produce and make shopping shopping, sports and entertainment. in Narrabri. Major national retailers a more enjoyable experience. Narrabri projects an outstanding share the busy CBD with family- As the centre of Narrabri Shire, the beauty with the Namoi River flowing owned stores and tempting eateries. town of Narrabri has an amazing through the town centre and The main street ofers a scrumptious array of leisure activities and facilities residents enjoying spectacular views selection of dining options from for the whole family to enjoy. From of the Nandewar Ranges. Narrabri is cafés, restaurants, pubs, clubs and The Crossing Theatre to the Pirate set within stunning natural and rural take-away shops so you have many Park and beautifully maintained scenery and is amongst the most options for a delicious cofee or a sporting fields, there are always fertile agricultural land in the North- gourmet meal. There is a growing plenty of events and activities for West Slopes and Plains. influx of service-based stores taking residents to participate in and enjoy. Bustling Maitland Street caters for advantage of the growth of the local Renowned for its safe and friendly all tastes. Stage one of the Maitland economy. atmosphere, new residents will soon Street Upgrade is complete and Coles and Woolworths supermarkets be engrossed in the lifestyle and shoppers can enjoy a newly refreshed make access to a wide variety of feel at home as part of the Narrabri shopping environment. Residents groceries simple. Bakeries, butcheries community.
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 27 OTHER TOWNS WEE WAA Wee Waa is Australia’s Cotton Capital – the very birthplace Wee Waa has three reputable primary schools and one of Australia’s modern cotton industry. This richly fertile high school all boasting excellent facilities and academic area is well suited to agricultural pursuits and ofers a results. quality way of life. But, there is more to Wee Waa than Wee Waa is not alone in being a strong, sport-oriented just cotton! town which has an excellent golf course, swimming pool, Wee Waa has a busy and beautifully landscaped main indoor multi-purpose courts and numerous walking street with unique boutique shops to interest all tastes. tracks around the town. Being the oldest town in the Namoi Valley it features New residents will find Wee Waa a very welcoming, close many historic sites and points of interest for visitors. knit and supportive community.
BOGGABRI You won’t find a more-friendly town than Boggabri. This to support and take advantage of this new industry. vibrant and positive community has a great heritage. Boggabri has two primary schools, both with great The town catchphrase “The little town with the big heart” facilities and matching reputations. A new childrcare is a true representation of this progressive and positive centre has recently been built and is expected to open community. in 2021. Strategically positioned to take full advantage of the The town is situated on the southern edge of the resource industry, Boggabri is located close to coal Nandewar Ranges and the scenery in this part of the operations. The town is experiencing growth and Shire is breathtaking. Amazing rock formations such as development with an ever-growing demand on services Gin’s Leap and the spectacular Dripping Rock are only a and housing. A strong business community is developing short drive from the town centre.
28 Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON NARRABRI SHIRE COUNCIL, CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINKS:
www.narrabri.nsw.gov.au www.visitnarrabri.com.au
Narrabri Shire Information Pack Manager Property Services 29 www. n a r r a b r i .nsw.gov.au