Memorial service tribute to Paul Kahl MBE OAM

February 5, 2015, 2:12 pm

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The Crossing Theatre was packed on Tuesday as hundreds gathered to pay tribute to the late Paul Kahl MBE, OAM, a man who played a pivotal role in fundamentally changing the landscape of agriculture in the Namoi Valley and the northwest.

He left a legacy of achievements in local, regional and national spheres.

The memorial service was a celebration of Paul Kahl’s life. 

His family was joined at the service by many friends and colleagues, some of whose connections with Mr Kahl spanned decades, from many areas of Australia.

His significant accomplishments and his life of challenges, adventures and service were recalled.

Mr Kahl, who passed away in Narrabri on January 22, 2015, at the age of 96, arrived in Wee Waa in 1960 to investigate and subsequently play the key role with his business partner Mr Frank Hadley in the establishment of the modern Australian cotton industry.

Their drive and enterprise, underpinned then as now by world class agricultural scientists at Myall Vale research station, built the foundations of the Namoi Valley cotton industry.

The success of the new industry was soon replicated in the Macquarie Valley, the Gwydir Valley and Border Rivers, and continues to expand.

The memorial service, led by  Wee Waa Anglican Vicar Reverend Bernard Gabbott, was addressed by family members, with Mr Kahl’s son James delivering the eulogy, and former deputy Prime Minister John Anderson and Mr John Howes who worked alongside Mr Kahl from the earliest days at Namoi Cotton Co-operative as the cotton industry and its successful processing and marketing infrastructure was created.

“He made the cotton industry what it is today,” Mr Howes said.

Mr Dennis Lowder, Wee Waa, representing the RSL, spoke of Mr Kahl’s active service as a bomber pilot in World War 2. 

A full obituary  for Mr Kahl will be published in a future issue of The Courier.

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Opposition continues as Maules Ck mine officially opened

February 5, 2015, 2:21 pm

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The Australia Institute has labelled the rise of mining in the Narrabri Shire as the industry’s ‘last gasp’ before renewables take hold.

A representative from the research institute, which is funded by private donations, made a presentation at a community forum in Maules Creek last Friday.

Mark Ogge communicated research findings from the Australia Institute, CSIRO, University of Queensland and Reserve Bank of Australia, to an audience of more than 100 local people.

His main message was that extractive energy industries were in rapid decline. 

“India is building massive amounts of renewable energy infrastructure, by 2022 they aim to generate the same amount of power that comes out of the Australian grid,” he said.

“The more renewable energy infrastructure you build the more the price comes down because you’ve got an economy of scale so this is irreversible. 

“Miners want to make the money before they run out of time so that’s why there’s a mad rush.

“Their claims exaggerate the benefits and ignore many of the costs, it’s the industry’s last gasp and it’s driven by desperation.”

Senior management of Whitehaven, the major shareholder of the Maules Creek Coal Mine, have dismissed claims that the future of fossil fuels is uncertain. 

At the mine’s official opening earlier this week, Whitehaven CEO and Managing Director, Paul Flynn, explained why coal would remain a  global necessity. 

“Coal remains the cheapest and lowest risk form of energy, it has enriched Western nations but there are still 750 million people in Africa who don’t have access to power, so coal will help give them access,” he said.

“The future of coal is bright and it’s about using cleaner coal, exactly like what we have here at Maules Creek.”

Thermal coal mined so far at Maules Creek is testing only 7 percent ash, which makes it among the cleanest coal in the world. 

While the product is high quality, coal prices in general have hit a five year low and Whitehaven recently posted a first half loss of $79 million. 

Mr Flynn argues cost savings and structural changes will enable the company to ride out the coal slump.

Whitehaven senior management also took the opportunity at the official opening to thank the NSW Premier Mike Baird for government support of the development.

 “It’s nice to see the investment coming to fruition for the benefit of all, and such an extraordinary achievement in a short space of time,” Paul Flynn said.

“It’s a herculean effort and Maules Creek is changing our company before our very eyes, 359 days after clearing began we have started shipping coal.”

The mine has so far been built under budget and three months ahead of schedule. 

Just one year on from final approvals, the developement is 90% complete according to Whitehaven, with further clearing of the Leard State Forest due to begin on February 15 and a coal washing facility due to be completed mid year. 

Management predict the mine will provide 450 jobs at full production, most based locally, with $680 million in wages circulating through the towns.

While the Premier and Whitehaven senior management maintain that activities at the mine are transparent and within the law, there are members of the community who remain unimpressed by government decisions and the conduct of the company.

Boggabri farmer Sally Hunter, originally from Roma at the heart of the mining boom in Queensland, continues to campaign against mining in the region.

“What we’ve seen in the case of the Maules Creek mine is blatant disregard for independent science, community and cultural issues, and a highly questionable approvals process leading to snap decisions by politicians,” she said.

“These are the people and processes that are supposed to protect us, but we are starting to understand that we can’t rely on them to protect us anymore.

“What we’re told locally, what investors are told, what governments are told and what company staff are told can be totally different and change rapidly. 

“The government is often compromised by financial incentives that mean they’re not always putting the community, health and environmental interests first.

“These companies are driven solely by the desire to generate profits to satisfy shareholders and unfortunately the government struggles to remain independent and uphold the rights of people and the environment.”

The forum resolved to change the political landscape by voting differently at the upcoming state election, and to remain educated about the mining industry.

“Education is the most critical way of maintaining our rights,” she said.

“We struggle not to be alarmists but to inform people of what the risks are and what has happened in other places.

“By being informed about health, economic and environmental issues we can begin to work out what we can do to protect our families, communities, resources and assets into the future.”

The community forum also heard presentations from local politicians, health experts and representatives of the local indigenous community, who all expressed concerns around the social, economic and environmental impacts of the industry.

Grains research institute now the nation’s biggest

February 5, 2015, 2:30 pm

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Narrabri is now home to the largest regionally based grains research facility in Australia.

This week, the University of Sydney announced the purchase of Ron and Gloria Campey’s farm L’lara, a 1838 hectare property adjacent to the I.A. Watson Grains Research Institute.

“This acquisition will effectively treble our acreage and open up significantly expanded capability for our research programs,” said Institute Director, Professor Richard Trethowan.

The expansion of the Institute’s land is complemented by the expansion of research programs now underway and planned, and in the increasing number of researchers based at the Institute joined by visiting scientists and PhD students.

I.A. Watson Grains Research Institute Associate Professor Richard Heath said the acquisition of L’lara by the University of Sydney was  ‘a purchase for the industry.’ 

“This will be the biggest regionally based grains research facility in Australia, in area, value of research and personnel.

“We have six full time academics, six full time technical staff, the same in part time technical staff and about 15 post graduate students who work here. 

“That will also grow with the new research that will come on line with the additional land now available.

“We are the only university in Australia that is actually expanding its faculty of agriculture in this way” said Prof Heath.

”It is quite significant in the Australian university environment.

“The Institute works on winter cereals, but also a significant program in pulse research, faba beans and field peas particularly.

The research programs are focused on the needs of the northern grains industry, but some programs have international focus. 

“The sky is the limit now” said Prof Trethowan. “It gives us so much more scope for research. Our primary aim is to do the research that underpins the grains industry in the north and we have always previously  been constrained by the size of the property.”

Ron and Gloria Campey have also significantly boosted research into grain growing in the north-west slopes region by gifting $400,000 to the faculty of Agriculture and Environment at the University of Sydney.

The money will be used to support vital grains research through scholarships for research students.

The property is to be renamed Campey Farm in recognition of the Campey family’s gift.

The University of Sydney is undertaking a long-term, coordinated research program in the region, with the aim of increasing and improving grain production and ensuring sustainability of production, explained  Professor Mark Adams, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and Environment.

“The scholarships made possible by Ron and Gloria Campey are incredibly important as they will enable talented students to undertake research that could inform the future of grain growing,” Professor  Adams said.

“The donation will bolster existing support for research in the area, including commitments from the University, the Wheat Research Foundation (WRF), and the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) to the new infrastructure at the IA Watson Research Station in recent years.” 

The University of Sydney has strengthened its position in the region with the purchase of L’lara, Professor Adams said.

“This investment is further evidence of the deep commitment of the University of Sydney to the grains industry and to the region.”

Narrabri Ruralco Property agent, Michael Guest, who acted on behalf of the Campey family during the sale, is enthusiastic about the future of grains research in the Narrabri area.

“This expansion of the University of Sydney footprint not only recognises the importance of the north-west as the focal centre of grain growing in Australia, but will also provide tremendous opportunities for the University and its partner organisations to further develop their programs,” he said.

Move for a strategic plan for lake

February 5, 2015, 2:41 pm

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Community interest in the future development of Yarrie Lake as a water sports recreation area drew more than 60 people to an informal meeting on the lake foreshore on Saturday afternoon.

The gathering heard a wide range of issues aired and ultimately agreed to offer more community involvement to the Yarrie Lake Trust which administers the lake and its surrounds.

The aim, if the offer was adopted, would be to collectively create a new strategic plan for Yarrie Lake which would become a selling document to argue the case for government funding.

Speakers agreed two essential elements had to be secured for Yarrie Lake to be taken to a new era of development - water and money.

One of the attendees, independent candidate for the Barwon state election, Mr Rohan Boehm, proposed that interested people offer to work with the Trust with the aim of developing a strategic plan.

The motion was adopted and three people agreed to offer their input, Mr Ron Campey, convenor of the meeting, Laura Dean and Jeanelle Nehrkorn. 

The three who have offered their support to the Yarrie Lake Trust will contact the Trust with the offer.

Mr Campey said he had decided to call a public meeting to launch a community discussion on the future of the lake and provide an opportunity to hear and discuss ideas.

“We want to see what we can do to improve facilities for the whole community.”

The Yarrie Lake Trust’s volunteer members  have been administering the lake, and providing the labour and expertise for ongoing upgrades for many years.

Bernie Smith has been a Trust member for 36 years. Others have long periods of service.

“The improvements to the lake over the past 20 years have been phenomenal” said a former Trust president, Mr Dennis Lowder.

An amenities block from the 1980s had been joined by table and seating shelters, 20 camp sites, a ring main around the lake perimeter to provide water, taps, sealed internal roads, power, a caretaker’s cottage, a footbridge over the inlet into the lake and a second amenities block on the eastern side of the lake nearly completed.

However, the Trust is a small band of volunteers, with only a handful of active workers, the same few people who keep turning up for regular working bees and projects at the lake  year after year.

“We are having a working bee tomorrow” the caretaker, Jerry Rolf told the meeting. “Anyone is welcome to turn up.”

Yarrie Lake is used by a large district water skiing fraternity, with dozens of boats and skiers and many picnickers and campers enjoying the lake on weekends when the water is high enough. 

Christmas and Easter holidays see the lake area packed.

The value of attracting more ‘grey nomads’ and tourists to the lake was noted, as was the fact that the nomads were generally winter visitors, and didn’t interfere with skiers.

Mr Lowder said the lake was principally a local district recreational asset, mainly for water skiers. But tourism was a bonus. 

After general discussion, Mr Boehm said a strategic plan should be worked out, taken to the shire council and community for feedback, and government and other agencies targeted for funding to meet the plan’s objectives.

Speakers said areas a strategic plan could focus on could include a major upgrade of power, which was a priority, road sealing into and internally at the lake, signage directing travellers to the lake, and a means of keeping the lake filled.

The lake is completely dry at present, but several speakers suggested any works should go ahead in anticipation of it filling again.

When the lake is full through rain run off, it will remain full for two or three years,  speakers said.

The history of water bores to feed onto the lake was recalled and the high power costs associated with a bore to keep the lake topped up were discussed. 

Desilting was talked about, with the warning that the impermeable lake bed could not be compromised by any excavations.

Cr Robyn Faber said a strategic plan was needed to take to funding authorities. 

The plan would need to present a compelling case to prove that the area was deserving of investment, and encompass an overall vision for the area with demonstrable benefits to the community.

Tenayah Woodward wins the Auscott Scholarship

February 10, 2015, 1:54 pm

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Narrabri High School student Tenayah Woodward has been awarded the 2015 Auscott Scholarship.

Tenayah, the daughter of Tania and Dean Woodward, is the 48th recipient from the Namoi Valley to be awarded the Auscott Education Programme Scholarship.

The award follows an interview process which was undertaken in late 2014. The interview panel, made up of Auscott representatives, was impressed by the high standard of the applicants from the area.

Criteria used by the selection committee for awarding the scholarship include realistic ambition, need, the ability to succeed in a chosen course, motivation, academic performance, personal presentation, community involvement and maturity. 

Academic results are not the sole basis on which a decision is reached.

Tenayah joins other Auscott Scholarship winners from the Gwydir and Macquarie Valleys and also now the Murrumbidgee Valley.

Tenayah plans to attend the University of New England, where she will undertake a Bachelor of Rural Science degree.

In 2015, Auscott will be supporting nine carry-over students as well as the four new students, with investment in the scholarships currently running at around $149,500 annually.

The scholarship assists students to meet expenses such as tuition, books, living expenses, as well as other compulsory and course fees, totalling up to $11,500 per year over the life of the scholarship.

Barwon Woman of the Year breaking down health barriers

February 10, 2015, 1:57 pm

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One week after being announced Narrabri Shire’s Citizen of the Year, local woman Kelly Foran has now been awarded the highest honour for women in the Barwon Electorate.

Kelly was recently named the 2015 Local Woman of the Year in Barwon for ongoing work with her foundation, Friendly Faces Helping Hands (FFHH), which provides free assistance for people trying to access appropriate health care in challenging situations.

She was inspired to start FFHH in 2010 after her own experiences in health care.

Ten years ago Kelly developed a brain tumour while pregnant, then suffered a stroke and an infection on the brain as a result of the surgery. 

Her son, born by emergency caesarean, also developed serious health complications, which meant they both required extensive medical treatment in this city.

While mother and son have both since recovered, the journey was extremely difficult causing Kelly to set off on a mission to help other families in a similar position. 

“We were really lucky that we have a beautiful family that helped and supported us, but lots of people don’t have that so I set up a foundation that helps people get to hospitals and health facilities all over Australia,“ Kelly explained.

“We help and support people with small things like making sure they know about Angel Flight.

“I spend hours researching things for people because they don’t have the time to do it themselves.

“There are so many support services, I’m not the hero, I’m just connecting people with those services and I’m lucky to be able to do that.”

Friendly Faces Helping Hands has been an overwhelming success, already helping over 45,000 people across Australia and saving countless lives.  

In one instance, Kelly was able to facilitate the transportation of a

terminally ill young man to an American hospital, the only location offering the treatment he required.

"I got a phone call from a lady in QLD and she said our next door neighbour’s 19 year old has cancer and he’s been told to go home and die because there is nothing else the doctors can do, can you help us?"

"The mother had absolutely lost the plot which is fair, her son had brain cancer, doctors operated 4 times and then told them there is nothing else they could do.

"I researched his condition and found out that there is a treatment in America which has a 96% success rate, and I knew that in previous cases Australians had been sent over by the Federal government because it works and it wasn’t in Australia, so they paid.

“So I got on the phone to Mark Coulton and asked him what he could do, and he took it to parliament and got it through that they would pay $200,000 for the surgery and to send him to America, he’s over there now and he’s in treatment.

“He’s still alive and they’d given him four weeks to live and that was back in December"

While Kelly is going from strength to strength personally and now in the running for NSW Woman of the Year, the foundation is also gaining momentum with support flowing in. Most recently, a Tasmanian woman donated the use of her holiday house to families who approach FFHH in need of respite. 

Victorian horse breeders Mark and Shelley Russ also donated 10% of the sale value of two horses they had up for auction in the Landmark Classic sale held in Tamworth last Friday.

The horses sold for a total of $67,000 dollars, meaning the Ruff’s donated almost $7,000 to FFHH.

Kelly’s unique venture has gained national recognition, and she is often asked to share her experience at national forums or events.

“For the first three years I was absolutely run off my feet trying to make sure people knew about us and it’s now getting to the point where people are actually coming to us and asking us to be a part of their organisation or event,” Kelly said. 

“After 4 years I feel we can ask people for donations which we’ve never done before, so we’re looking at setting up a regular donation program at around $2 per week.”

Kelly has recently been approached by Charles Sturt University to form a partnership wherein she provides guest lectures in social science courses.

CSU has suggested student practical placements with FFHH which would count towards the completion of degrees. 

This year Kelly aims to launch a mobile phone application to help people access FFHH services, but she wants to remain accessible to people outside the digital realm. 

“The website is the main ‘go to’ but for a lot of people, who don’t have internet service or a computer, we push our hotline and phone support, and we still fax a lot of information,” she said.

“Telstra gave us phones that we hand out to people for free, and then we can text them information, but then still some people can’t text.”

Ultimately, Kelly hopes for a more holistic health system, where services like Friendly Faces Helping Hands are endemic rather than externally run foundations. 

“I want all the different services to talk to each other, to not be worried about being private, government or not-for-profit, everyone has a role to play and we need to start working together.”

Kelly is extremely proud that her hard work is being recognised.

Barwon MP Kevin Humphries said Kelly was a clear choice for the Woman of the Year.

“Through the Friendly Faces

website, Kelly provides information and support to rural people who suddenly find themselves trying to navigate the complex city hospital and health systems,” he said.

 “It is often the thankless work of women like Kelly that makes our community great places to live and defines who we are as Australians,” he said. Kelly will attend the 2015 NSW Women of the Year award ceremony at Parliament House in March.

Thieves arrested, families relieved

February 10, 2015, 2:06 pm

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Residents of Wee Waa are breathing a sigh of relief as two thieves, believed to be responsible for a series of thefts and break-ins over recent weeks, were arrested last Monday.

Anglican Reverend Bernard Gabbott is especially grateful for the capture of the culprits, who robbed and ransacked both the church and the vicarage twice within three weeks.

He believes the town’s spirits have been lifted by the successful efforts of police to put a stop to the crime spate. 

“In the context of a drought and a lot of people already doing it tough, to have something like this happen has certainly put the town on edge, it’s been unfortunate, but since the arrests I’ve noticed people are a bit more relaxed,” he said.

“It’s a reminder that we live in a pretty broken world, but we’ve been really blessed by the police, in the space of a week to have that turn around from the Brown’s burglary, they just worked so hard.”

Reverend Gabbott described the devastation and fear his family had felt after being robbed twice. 

“The first time we were on holidays, when we got home we discovered they’d made a mess of the church office, gotten into the safe and stolen at least one week’s offertory, which was about $500 dollars and then close to $1000 from the house,” he said.

The second attack occurred while the Reverend’s wife Anita and their children were inside the house.

A strange noise alerted Mrs Gabbott to the fact that there was someone in the kitchen, and her son Seth witnessed the intruder who promptly made off with his mother’s handbag.

“I was out jogging… when I got back from the run, the family was pretty upset,” the Reverend said. 

They later discovered the church had also been broken into again, although on this occasion three week’s offertory was stolen, about $1400. 

The Catholic Church was also robbed and ransacked during this 24 hour period.

The thefts were a significant setback for the churches, which rely on 

offertory to pay bills and staff.

“We think we’re covered by insurance but it’s certainly shaken the family up and people were quite upset that the church was targeted as well,” Reverend Gabbott explained. 

“The police have been terrific they’ve encouraged us to do certain things around the house, without going so far as to put bars on the windows of the house and the church, but we’ve done the best we can in terms of security.”

Airport upgrade: construction start nears

February 10, 2015, 2:11 pm

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A start on construction work for the upgrade of Narrabri Airport is getting close.

Narrabri Shire’s Director of Engineering Services, Mr Andre Kompler, will table a report on the construction and timetable options for a decision at next Tuesday’s meeting.

The council last year let a contract for the design and project management of the multi-million dollar upgrade.

“The design is near completion” said Mr Kompler.

“We are preparing tender documentation and are almost ready to go out to contract.

“The report to council will contain a program, overviews on what should be done, how it should be  constructed, the times we envisage the airport being  partly out of action, and the provisions made for that.

“The council will have the opportunity to review the options report on how we can best upgrade the runway and air side works and how it can be best implemented in the quickest time possible while still maintaining the time frame and budget” Mr Kompler said.

“At this point the project is on target for time and budget.

“We are still planning to finish the work by the end of July.”

The  process of canvassing stakeholder needs, the airport users,  has been worked through.

The configuration of the work and ongoing operations of the airport to provide the best way forward are subject to the range of options. 

An updated program for the work will be available after Mr Kompler’s report is discussed at Tuesday’s meeting and the council resolves which construction-timetable option to take.

“The airport upgrade will be a pretty intensive project” added Mr Kompler.

“When we do the design it is not just a case of putting an overlay on -  it is much more significant as a construction project with the particular requirements of an airport.”

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Water for Baan Baa: Kevin Humphries announces $4.4 million project

February 10, 2015, 2:13 pm

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Baan Baa residents today welcomed the long awaited news that their village is to have a water supply.

Member for Barwon, Mr Kevin Humphries, announced that the NSW government had allocated $2.2 million for the project which will see the installation of a reticulated supply to homes and businesses throughout Baan Baa.

The $2.2 million will be matched by a $2.2 million grant from Whitehaven Coal which was provided to Narrabri Shire Council as part of the Voluntary Planning agreement (VPA.) 

The installation will have the capability of ultimately providing water connections to 400 sites.

“This is fantastic news” said president of Advance Baan Baa, Des Barton.

“The water supply will underwrite Baan Baa’s growth.  We are already getting inquiries from people who want to build and live  in Baan Baa.”

The community had lobbied for the water supply for years, he said.

The long-term water supply for Baan Baa has been secured with the NSW Government allocating $2.2 million to support new potable water supply to the town, Minister for Natural Resources, Lands and Water Kevin Humphries announced today.

Mr Humphries said the NSW Government has allocated half of the project’s $4.4 million cost through the Water Security for Regions program to allow Narrabri Shire Council to undertake works to increase the reliability and security of the water supply to local households and businesses.  

“This project will help to improve economic growth and productivity in the region, while providing greater access to water for our communities,” Mr Humphries said.

“Baan Baa currently uses rain water tanks, and this project, led by Narrabri Shire Council, will provide the community with a new, cost effective and secure mains water supply.

“This funding will provide permanent potable water from a new groundwater bore about four kilometres away from the township which will deliver reliable and secure water supplies.

“This is extremely welcome news for the local community, who have been lobbying for well over a decade to obtain a secure water supply.  

“The project will benefit local households and businesses, allow for expansion to meet the needs of the area’s growing mining industry, and ensure that water supply to the wider area is not compromised.”

Mr Humphries said the NSW Liberals and Nationals Government has reserved $366 million under Water Security for Regions to help towns and regional industries deal with drier conditions.

Successful projects are selected by a Regional Independent Assessment Panel, with preference given to those with the best and most timely impact on water security.

Advance Boggabri chairman Mr Des Barton said the campaign for the Baan Baa water supply had been underway for years and had been supported by several key people.

These included Cr John Tough, who successfully moved for the re-allocation of Whitehaven Coal VPA funds from a proposed Tarriaro bridge upgrade to the water supply project, Cr Lloyd Findley, the mayor Cr Conrad Bolton and the Director of Engineering Services, Mr Andre Kompler, among many others.

The quest for a Baan Baa water supply  goes back to the 1930s, and experienced a resurgence of interest from time to time over the ensuing decades.

More recent costings found the project would be too expensive for the council’s budget and it was put on the back burner.

The influx of VPA funds from coal mining and the emergence of the mining industry, with its epicentre around Baan Baa re-activated the proposal.

The shire council undertook a survey of Baan Baa residents before embarking on the project to ascertain the level of support for a water supply in view of the ongoing cost to residents.

The survey revealed 73 percent were in favour, Mr Barton said.

“The provision of a water supply will see development for Baan Baa ” he predicted.

“I have already fielded several inquiries from people interested in building here.”

Former cotton researcher sets sights on dairy industry

February 11, 2015, 9:25 pm

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The embattled Australian dairy industry, which has struggled with low milk prices and dry conditions in recent years, has recruited a former Narrabri cotton researcher in an attempt to inject more young skilled workers into the industry.

Kate McMaster is originally from the Central Coast region of NSW, but in recent years has worked at the Australian Cotton Research Institute between Wee Waa and Narrabri.

Kate has kick-started a new career in the dairy industry by winning a hotly contested national scholarship run by Dairy Australia.

Kate holds a Bachelor of Food Science and Human Nutrition and has this week started working with dairy industry experts to learn about dairy manufacturing.

She will also do placements at dairy production hubs across Australia including  Warrnambool Cheese and Butter, Murray Goulburn, Bega Cheese, Barossa Valley Cheese, Fonterra, Burra Foods, Parmalat, Bulla Foods, Lion and Coles.

Kate is particularly looking forward to finding out more about cheese making.

“I am excited to learn more about the development of raw food through processing into a marketed product. From a graduate perspective, the program is a great stepping stone into the industry and into real-life experiences,” Kate said.

Her broader interest in the agricultural sector was sparked during her time in Narrabri.

“After living in a rural community I jumped at the opportunity to work with farmers and in the field of food production,” Kate said. 

“This scholarship provides an opportunity to enhance knowledge from University and hopefully start a long term career in the dairy industry.

I’m hoping at the end of this I’ll be able to start at a dairy company in the manufacturing field, either in Victoria, Tasmania or southern NSW.”

The 2015 program received a large number of applications and the judging panel said it was a challenging task to choose the winners based on academic excellence, work experience and passion for the dairy industry.

All graduates who took part in the 2014 program gained employment in the dairy food industry within six weeks of completing the program.

$10,000 for lake surrounds

February 11, 2015, 9:58 pm

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The Narrabri Lake Advisory Committee has secured a $10,000 grant from the State Government to implement a planting plan for native trees, shrubs and grasses on the parklands surrounding the lake. 

Preparations have begun and planting will commence in April when the weather conditions are suitable. 

“Securing the grant to implement the planting plan is a big step in the right direction to make the Lake and the surrounding parklands a shady, pleasant environment for use by residents and visitors into the future,” said deputy mayor Cr Cathy Redding. 

The NSW Department of Primary Industry has provided the funding for 20 hectares of revegetation and regeneration including establishment of approximately 1000 native trees, shrubs and native grasses. Weed control, monitoring and maintenance are also part of the project. 

“The Narrabri Lake Advisory Committee has worked solidly over the past four years to develop a Plan of Management over the Lake identifying future development and improvements,” Cr Redding said.

“That planning is now realising results with a number of projects receiving grant funding and gaining momentum including the Exercise Stations to be installed by the Narrabri Rotary Club, the Skate Park project being championed by the Narrabri West Development Committee Inc., and various projects being driven by Council’s Lake Advisory Committee.”

Council has qualified horticulturalists on its Parks and Gardens staff who are looking forward to the opportunity to use their skills and experience. 

Steffi Lilliebridge, and her son Tom, are also excited about improvements planned for the lake, as they visit the spot regularly for exercise and leisure. 

“Narrabri has this beautiful asset so why not make it more people friendly, I’ll definitely be visiting the lake more once the improvements have been made,” she said.

“It’s great that the Rotary Club is putting in the exercise stations, I know a lot of people are keen to see that happen.

“It’ll all come together once the lake is full again, it seems to have really dried up quickly in the last week, so hopefully there is some rain on the way.”

And residents who are interested in volunteering to help with planting during April 2015 are encouraged to contact the council.

Community urged to attend meeting on CBD proposals

February 11, 2015, 10:00 pm

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The Narrabri community will next week have the opportunity to express its views and hear information on an issue which has occupied the thoughts of many for many years - the proposed Maitland Street lighting and a new CBD streetscape.

A public meeting has been convened by the council at The Crossing Theatre at 6.30 on Wednesday, February 18, to gather input on proposed changes to the main street. The council and Chamber of Commerce have urged people to attend.

The changes to the main street are part of the CBD Masterplan which encompasses Tibbereena Street and Barwon Streets. However, the council focus is on the three options presented for the three CBD blocks.

The results of a survey mailed to residents, and the public meeting outcome, will inform a decision on the lights at the March council meeting.

The following is an outline of council's proposal:

The proposal to upgrade the Narrabri CBD precinct with new lighting complying with relevant Australian Standards and additional shade to make the CBD environment more attractive to customers to stay longer and shop locally has been on the agenda for a considerable time.

The proposal commenced with the commissioning of a CBD master plan to guide future planning and staged upgrading of Narrabri’s core shopping precinct. 

The CBD master plan adopted in late 2013 by Council after considerable community input contained very strong messages from the community for more parking,  more shade from trees and better lighting. 

To address these issues the plan contained provision for trees down the centre of Maitland Street in 2.5m (now reduced to 2m) wide islands, lights on footpaths close to the kerb and no loss of parking after a centre parking arrangement was rejected by the community. 

Council identified that the lighting proposed for the CBD had to meet the luminance levels for footpaths and roadways to mitigate potential legal issues that may arise with non-compliant lighting. 

Work performed by a lighting consultant identified that placing lights on the footpath would not be practical due to the presence of shop awnings which had the effect of preventing lighting levels from being able to be met on footpaths and forced some lights to be placed on road shoulders causing impacts on parking and a non-uniform appearance with some lights on the footpath and others on the road. 

As a result Council decided in June 2014 to install the lighting in the proposed centre medium strip proposed to contain the new trees. 

This approach was seen as the most effective means of achieving the master plan objectives and providing complying lighting to both the footpaths and the road.

Council further considered reports relating to the type of lighting to be installed and has since resolved to seek community input through the survey which has been mailed to residents of Narrabri’s postal area.

A public meeting will be held next Wednesday, February 18, commencing at 6.30pm at the Crossing Theatre. Council identified the following three options for community input with each option having consequences that are both positive and negative:

Option 1 – Install Lights and Trees in 2m Centre Median:

This option would involve removal of existing light poles and construction of a 2m wide centre median with lighting and trees.

This option meets Australian Standard for lighting and provides trees without loss of car parking.

Available travel lane width on each side of roadway is reduced by 887mm. 

This option is the only one to meet the Master plan objectives.

A similar configuration has been successfully achieved in Goondiwindi, Casino and other larger towns with more traffic volume. 

Option 2 – Footpath and adjacent kerb on roadway location:

This option would involve placing some light poles on the footpath at least 600mm back from the kerb and some poles at least 600mm out on the roadway in locations where shop awnings project to the kerb. 

This is because the awnings along the main street allow for limited placement on the actual footpath.

This option does not allow for any tree placement to achieve the objectives of the adopted Master plan.

This option will require approximately 16 car parking spaces to be affected with protection of new poles on the road shoulder required.

There would be minimal disruption to existing traffic and street infrastructure, however there would be an impact on visual aesthetic with misaligned/staggered location of the poles alternating between footpath and roadway.

Option 3 – Existing location on Road Shoulder:

This option would involve replacing the existing lights in current locations supplemented by additional lights to meet Australian Standard lighting levels.

This option will require the light poles to be protected by extending the kerb out around the pole to stop car damage and this will result in approximately 30 car-parking spaces being affected or removed.

This option does not allow for any tree placement to achieve the objectives of the Master plan.

There would be a cheaper total project cost.

Since the proposals have been circulating in the community Council staff have fielded questions relating to a perceived safety risk and impact on traffic flow in reducing the available distance for vehicles to reverse before entering the traffic lane due to the nose in parking arrangements currently used in Narrabri. 

Responses have been provided with the following points noted:

1.The traffic lane will be reduced by only 887mm on each side which will still allow sufficient room for a reversing vehicle to be clearly visible to oncoming vehicles to stop with the low speeds being travelled.

2.There is a high proportion of existing reversing traffic that enters the traffic lane for various reasons without major impact on safety due to drivers being aware of the need to frequently stop. 

3.Other towns such as Goondiwindi and Casino have nose in parking, centre islands and less distance from the back of the parked cars to the traffic lane than the Narrabri proposal and those Council’s report no increases in accidents in their CBD areas.

The results of the surveys (available online at www.narrabri.nsw.gov.au posted to residents and available at the drop off points) , the public meeting and previous professional advice from traffic engineers and lighting experts will be collated and reported to the March Council meeting to allow Council to make a final decision on the most effective way to achieve the master plan objectives previously indentified. 

Government cracks down on foreign farm ownership

February 11, 2015, 10:16 pm

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North western rural real estate agents feel reassured by the Federal Government’s decision to tighten regulations around the purchase of farm land by foreign companies. 

Yesterday the government announced it would reduce the screening threshold for foreign purchases from $252 million to $15 million as of March 1.

The new $15 million screening threshold will apply to the cumulative value of agricultural land owned by the foreign investor, including the purposed purchase.

The Government also announced the establishment of a foreign ownership register of agricultural land to strengthen reporting requirements and provide a clear picture of foreign investment in Australia’s agricultural sector.

From July 1 the Australian Tax Office (ATO) will start collecting information on all new foreign investment in agricultural land regardless of value.

The ATO will also commence a stocktake of existing agricultural land ownership by foreign interests.

The government argues it will continue to welcome foreign investment, but that the purchases must be made on Australia’s terms and for the benefit of the nation.

“These measures are a significant step in protecting Australia’s national interests and in giving the community greater confidence in our foreign investment regime,” the Prime Minister’s press release reads. 

“Foreign investment always has, and will continue to be, integral to Australia’s economic success.”

Local rural property agent Michael Guest believes the announcement is a positive step.

“I am concerned that the magnitude of foreign investment in our agricultural property sector is having a significant detrimental effect on the Australian economy and taxation system,” he said.

“I welcome the closer scrutiny of foreign investment in agricultural land.”

Mr Guest added that he did hold some reservations around how the changes would affect the market.

“The revised cumulative threshold level of $15 million may hinder competition in the rural property marketplace,” he said.

Mr Guest also believes the laws in relation to foreign ownership in residential real estate should be enforced. 

The Government is currently considering the recommendations of the Parliamentary Committee inquiry led by Kelly O’Dwyer MP regarding foreign investment in residential real estate. 

“There does need to be better enforcement of the rules for foreign purchases of existing homes so that young people are not priced out of the market,” a spokesperson said.

The Government will announce details of the reforms to foreign investment in residential real estate in coming weeks.

Epic horse drawn journey raises funds for research

February 11, 2015, 10:22 pm

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Ian ‘Rattles’ Retallack was up early today, as always, to hitch up his horses and resume his epic fund raising journey around Australia.

“But a bit of a slower start today,” Ian said.

“My two horses Paddy and Matt had wandered off in the night in Boggabri and I had to catch them.”

However, Ian - nickname ‘Rattles’ and his two mates were soon back on track and headed for Narrabri.

Ian Retallack has embarked on what is possibly a ‘first’ - a wagon trip right around Australia. 

He is raising funds for cancer research and will be in Narrabri about 11am on Friday.

“I set off from Boyup in WA at the end of October 2013,” he said.

“So far I have covered 5,500 km.

“I will finish back at Boyup, in about two and a half years, on the day I left.

Ian is headed up to Katherine, and maybe as far as Darwin.

He’s mindful of the rainy season up north.

“But whatever happens, happens” Ian said.

“I came across the Nullabor Plain in the hottest months. 

“I don’t think I will do that again, I can tell you,” he adds.

His horses Matt and Paddy are retired pacers, and well adjusted to their more leisurely speed.

The fourth member of the team is his ‘Kelpie cross with a bit of dingo’, Ruff.

Ian has undertaken his fund raising trip, ‘Rattles’ Ride for Cancer’, to raise funds for cancer research, but he has a very personal interest in the cause as well.

“My Mum passed away with cancer,” he said.

“And my brother Steve suffered from bowel cancer, but he got a clearance while I have been on this trip.”

Ian is looking forward to a major family reunion when he gets to Moree next week.

He is excited to be meeting up with some Inverell relatives, three generations of family  he has never met.

“My great, great grandfather took a bullock team across the country and left his brother behind and we never got to meet the descendants,” he explained.

Retallack is not a particularly common name, and these are “Retallicks” as well.

“Apparently it’s rumoured there was a big family split many years ago,” said Ian “and one side changed the spelling of their name.”

Ian has a fundraising target of $1 million.

“But if I don’t raise it that’s fine, as long as what I do raise saves one child’s life,” he said.

In Boggabri a trivia night on Monday added $160 to the funds.

Ian is keen for someone to organise something in Narrabri.

“I will be in Narrabri Friday and Saturday nights,” he said. 

His number is 0498 467 735, and is happy to chat with any callers.

“And I would appreciate some feed, lucerne chaff or lucerne hay, for  Matt and Paddy,” he said. 

“That would be very welcome.” 

What’s the standout feature of the trip so far?

“Generosity,” said Ian. 

“The true blue generosity of people I meet, right across this whole country, the truck drivers, at service stations, the farmers, the hotels, everyone. You can’t beat ‘em. 

“They say ‘come on in and have a meal.’ It is really hard to explain.

“But I will include it all in the book I am definitely going to write ‘Aussie Adventure - Rattles’ Ride,” Ian said.

“I think I might be the first to go right around the whole country with a horse and wagon.

“But the most important thing about this whole journey is getting people to be more aware of what is going on a round them in terms of people suffering from cancer.”

“So many people talk to me and release their stress and experiences about what has happened to them.

“Cancer touches every family or someone you know.

“And if I can do my bit to help I will get out and do it.

“If I don’t raise a million, but can help save a life, I  have done my job.

“I have raised $54,000 so far.”

Meanwhile, Matt and Paddy continue their slow plod north, every step hopefully taking Ian closer to his target.

Gallipoli stage drama will launch ANZAC centenary

February 16, 2015, 9:44 pm

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Narrabri RSL Club is planning to kick start the commemoration of the Anzac Centenary with a special event.

“The club will be staging  ‘‘Gallipoli - a manual of trench warfare’, a dramatic play which focuses on the experiences of Australian soldiers in the trenches at Gallipoli,” said Narrabri RSL CEO Paul Gordon.

“The presentation of the play will be a special event for the community.”

The RSL club will invite school students and Legacy widows to a performance of the play during the day on Monday, March 16, and will present an evening performance that night.

The day time performance will be preceded by a briefing, aimed at the younger audience, on the historic context of Gallipoli, its significance to Australia and Australia’s role in the First World War.

At night, the RSL auditorium and restaurant will be combined to accommodate the expected audience.

“We anticipate that the club’s auditorium will be filled for this event,” said Mr Gordon.

“We will be able to seat 348 people.”

Bookings are available at the club now and are expected to sell fast.

“Money raised will go towards the cost of the new war memorial," Mr Gordon said.

“We are inviting Narrabri businesses to buy tickets for corporate tables as a way of supporting the fund raising for the memorial and also as part of the community recognition of the Centenary of Anzac.”

Tables of eight, ten and 12 will be available. Some have already been booked.

The presentation will be a major event for the RSL club.

“We plan to decorate the auditorium and its entrance in a World War One theme,” Mr Gordon said.

“We have been planning this for some time and have been assisted with contributions of items from the war era.

“And we are asking people who have World War 1 memorabilia in the family to lend it to the club for the occasion.

“All items will be carefully looked after and returned.

“People are asked to lend portrait photos of family members who served in World War 1, war medals, uniforms or artefacts from the period.

“We would like to be able to display them in a special secure area for the performance of the play."

Narrabri RSL Club’s boardroom is already home to a repository of memorabilia from the First World War through subsequent conflicts.

The material has been collected and donated over the years and relevant pieces will be used for the themed decoration of the club.

The club has committed to ensuring that the staging of the play ‘Gallipoli - a manual of trench warfare’ is a special event for the community and the club in the Anzac centenary year and support for the project has come from many quarters.

One of the supporters who is making a unique contribution is Matt Mortlock, Tamworth, the brother-in- law of Narrabri’s Dean Browne.

Matt has been creating replica weapons and artefacts fom the Gallipoli campaign.

The replicas are accurate in every detail and will provide an authentic atmosphere to the themed decorations in the club for the staging of ‘Gallipoli - a manual of trench warfare.’

Matt has made a replica Vickers machine gun and Lee Enfield .303 rifles, the standard weapons of Gallipoli.

He is re-creating signs which resonate with Australia’s Gallipoli experience - The Nek and Lone Pine.

Matt is making replica ‘jam tin bombs’ - the home made explosive missiles the Anzacs made in the trenches to hurl into the Turkish enemy’s fortifications - sometimes just metres away.

The new Narrabri war memorial will be officially dedicated at a ceremony on Sunday, March 15.

The occasion will be a community event which will be attended by the state and national presidents of the RSL.

The dedication will begin at 11am.

It is hoped there will be a large attendance at the ceremony and service.

“This will be a memorial for the community for many years to come,” said Narrabri RSL sub branch president Mr Ken Craddock.

“We hope people will share this important event.”

Construction of the new Narrabri memorial, and its dedication, has been planned to ensure that the memorial is ready as the focal point of the Narrabri community’s commemoration of the Centenary of Anzac on Anzac Day.

Narrabri RSL Club is keen to hear from people who are able to lend artefacts dating from a family member’s service in the Great War, or from other sources.

“We are calling on people to help,” said RSL CEO Paul Gordon.

“We would particularly like to borrow a uniform from the period and a Light Horse saddle,” said RSL CEO Paul Gordon.

“We would also like to borrow medals awarded to district family members of World War 1 servicemen and other memorabilia,  helmets, photos, which people may have.

“All will be carefully looked after and returned.”

Please contact the RSL Club, 6792 1844 or drop into the club if you have items which can be lent to the club for the war memorial dedication - Gallipoli play period.

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Narrabri Education Foundation supports community's young people

February 16, 2015, 9:55 pm

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Narrabri Education Foundation (NEF) has again been a conduit of community support for Narrabri’s young people setting out on their career training pathway.

Last week, the NEF announced grants totalling $24,000 for 17 young people to help with vocational training and university study costs.

The NEF began its program in 2001 and is part of the Country Education Foundation of Australia.

The funds which provide the NEF grants are generated through local donations from corporate and private sponsors.

The grants are specifically for Narrabri school leavers and the program is administered by a local  volunteer committee, chaired by Mr Horst Merten.

“Late in 2014 we received 27 applications for funding,” a spokesperson said. 

“The committee deliberated and decided to appoint 18 grants ranging from $500 to $3000. 

“Some of these grants are to help with apprenticeships and some are to assist with University costs. 

“Universities may also offer these students a matching scholarship to that of the NEF.”

Grants are not based solely on acedemic criteria but are also given to students based on their goal setting, commitment and the need for financial assistance. 

The NEF has assisted more than  140 Narrabri students since 2002, distributing education grants and leadership development opportunities worth over  $300,000.

Rather than giving cash grants NEF pays for goods and services on the student’s behalf that are directly linked to their education and training goal.  

The Foundation believes that, in addition to the financial helping hand, the grant is conveying to each recipient that their community is supportive of them and wants to help them achieve their goal.  

“Receiving financial assistance from their community to help achieve a goal is such a boost to their confidence and their commitment to do well,” a spokesperson from NEF said. 

“Our local education foundation is something the Narrabri community can be proud of.  

“Our longevity and success is made possible because of the terrific community support we receive each year.

“Our community values our young people and thinks it is important to encourage and support their education goals and aspirations. 

“Education is the key to a self directed and self sustaining future.” 

NEF directs funding based on the knowledge that people who grow up in a rural setting are those most likely to live in a rural area when they have completed their studies and training.  

Former NEF grant recipients often return to Narrabri which shows the education grants are not only an investment in the future of the local community, but also in the future of rural and regional Australia 

“The grants we give are important because for many rural youth the distance they need to travel and the relocation costs associated with achieving their aspirations of TAFE or university can create great financial hardship, or adversely – the family do not even consider the possibility,” the NEF spokesperson said.

“We are giving them that opportunity, but every year financial hardship results in some of our local youth facing the possibility of not being able to achieve their post high school education and training goal and with it, the opportunity to reach their potential.

“These young people risk becoming disheartened and disenfranchised.

 “We know that this doesn’t have to be the case and by working together we can change the future for young people.”

Auscott managers remain positive as drought bites hard

February 16, 2015, 10:01 pm

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Just a quarter of the average cotton crop has been planted at Auscott’s Namoi Valley operations between Wee Waa and Narrabri this year.

In the fallow fields the ground is dry and cracking.

Like most farms in the district, the soil is in desperate need of a good soaking and the farm storages need refilling.

The company owned irrigation farm is usually busy all year round, rotating cotton crops with cereal grains and legumes, but without drought breaking rain the prospects for next year are grim.

At this stage it’s likely there will be no river water available for irrigation purposes next year, leaving ground water and rainfall as the only remaining options, reducing growing capacity further. 

Despite the current reduced planting due to lack of water, General Manager Bernie George is hopeful the smaller crop will at least be high quality.

“The cotton had a difficult start, it was quite cold early in October and then during November we had heatwaves, but the season since then has been encouraging,” he said. 

“The crop has really progressed quite well, and we’ve got enough water to finish the crop off.

“I’m hoping for above average yields but it’s always dangerous territory to start guessing so we’ll wait and see how it picks.

“Obviously we’re facing a difficult season and we’re all looking forward to some good rains to replenish Lake Keepit and Split Rock, we will need drought breaking rain to get things back on track.”

The recovery in the price of cotton over the course of the season is perhaps a saving grace for farmers who took a punt on planting a crop in the midst of a drought. 

After starting the season at $390 per bale, the price has climbed to $530, which is somewhat surprising considering there is currently a whole world’s supply of cotton in storage. 

China alone has stockpiled 102 million bales, almost equivalent to expected global output this year of 119 million bales. 

Grower services manager PJ Gileppa explains what is driving the positive price movements.

“Buyers are looking for some good quality cotton to blend with the lower quality, and we’ve also seen the Australian dollar fall which has made a big difference to the price,” he said.

“The price is positive going forward as well; we are already seeing $530 a bale on offer for next year’s cotton, but it’s hard to take advantage of those fully when there isn’t much water around.”

Positive prices may well be the silver lining for this year’s cotton season, but in general smaller crops mean less profits and less money flowing through to the local stores. 

Mr Gileppa says if it remains dry it will be tough on local businesses.

“There’s no question that this is already an issue west of Wee Waa, they’re looking at their third or fourth season with no plant at all, but further east the storm rain has been keeping most things going,” he said. 

“Mixed farmers have seen some improvements in prices for sheep and cattle, but with the irrigation next

season will be more of an issue.”

Each day without rain pushes the stakes higher for the local agricultural industry, with smaller family owned operations conceding it’s the toughest it’s ever been.

But Mr George is determined to remain positive about the future.

“We’re happy to have made it through this season and that little bit of rain around Christmas and New Year helped, it stretched irrigation intervals out a bit,” he explains.

“We’re ever optimistic otherwise we wouldn’t be in this game, but we are looking forward to the rain.”

Picking of the 1200 hectare cotton crop is expected to start at Auscott in mid-April. 

 

Protests continue despite closure of camp Wando

February 16, 2015, 10:06 pm

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Planned protests went ahead at Whitehaven’s Maules Creek coal mine over the weekend, and continue this week, despite the closure of the local protester hub, ‘Camp Wando’.

Additional specialist police resources from Sydney and Western regions have been deployed to the Maules Creek area to help contain and remove protesters.  

Five people who locked themselves onto the mine entrance, blocking vehicles, have so far been arrested.

A Leard Forest Alliance spokesperson claims there are over 300 protestors involved, with some attempting to halt clearing of the state forest by suspending themselves in the tree canopy and roping off sections of the bush.

Narrabri Acting Inspector Robert Dunn said the protesters had moved their base camp from Camp Wando to another local property and were roving in areas surrounding the mine.

Infrastructure remains on Camp Wando, a farm on the outskirts of Maules Creek, but it appears protesters are no longer camping there as per Narrabri Shire Council orders. 

The camp has provided protesters with a camping area, kitchen and toilet facilities for more than a year but Narrabri Shire Council recently took action to have the camp closed.

Council ordered the owner of the property, Cliff Wallace, to submit a Development Application (DA) in order to convert his property to a registered camping area, but the DA was never submitted.

Narrabri Shire acting director of planning, Mr Tony Meppem explains why council took action.

“The biggest issue has been the comings and goings of traffic and the inconvenience caused to other local residents,” he said.

“Council resolved back in May last year to restrict the number of people on Camp Wando at any one time and for Mr Wallace to lodge a DA within 60 days. 

“He’s given a written undertaking to cease the activity and council received that letter the day before Christmas  in 2014.

“If camping continued then council would be left with no choice but to seek an order in the Land and Environment Court to prohibit the activity permanently.

“However we don’t want to do that. We’re trying to avoid that outcome.”

Mr Meppem said there was a misconception that council can stop protests by closing the camp.

“All they’ll do is move somewhere else, we can’t stop his guests protesting, that’s a police matter,” he said. 

“Mr Wallace can still host protestors, there’s no problem with that, but he can’t run an organised camping ground without development consent, or hold events like protest concerts because it impacts on the neighbours.”

Front Line Action on Coal, one of the groups supporting and using Camp Wando, wrote an open letter to the Narrabri Shire Council, denouncing its decision to close the camp. 

“The campaign against coal mining in the Leard is far from over… council’s actions are not only inappropriate, but futile,” the letter reads. 

“The wider community’s need for farmland, uncontaminated underground water, clean air and social and environmental justice will not disappear simply because council have attempted to disperse a single camp at Wando. 

“By stepping in and moving on this camp, you are selling our message better than we could. 

“It is no shock that council have set this deadline just a week before Whitehaven and Idemitsu begin ten weeks of destroying the Leard State Forest - a site of high Aboriginal and cultural heritage significance and also a critically endangered state forest with tier one biodiversity.

“The deadline also comes at a time when our host Cliff Wallace faces personal health issues - known to the council - and we consider this to be a weak and callous action against one of its own constituents.”

Protesters seemed unperturbed by the closure of Camp Wando over the weekend, rallying on the stock routes near the mine entrance and locking onto machinery.

The Leard Forest Alliance coordinated the 6-day protest to hinder the commencement of clearing in Leard State forest on February 13.

Whitehaven has state government approval to clear areas of the Leard Forest to make way for the next stage of the coal mine, but the company can only clear at restricted times of the year to minimise native animal disturbance. 

 

Council says ‘no’ to Riverbend development

February 16, 2015, 10:12 pm

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Narrabri Shire Council has voted not to support a proposed change to the Narrabri Local Environment Plan (LEP) to include a motel-functions centre to be developed at the Riverbend Estate.

Today’s council meeting voted unanimously, with no discussion, to adopt the recommendation of the council’s planning department not to proceed with the planning proposal.

A public gallery of objectors was present for the council vote and three speakers representing them  presented arguments against the proposal.

They argued that landholders had bought blocks in the Riverbend Estate in the expectation that it would remain a rural lifestyle environment.

They feared that the development of  commercial premises would destroy that amenity.

The council vote came at the end of a long campaign of opposition from Riverbend Estate and other residents. 

The issue was first before the council  the October monthly meeting

The planning department noted that council had received many objections to the proposal.

However, the applicant had argued that the residents’ fears were misplaced.

A spokesperson for the group of objectors at the meeting Ms Jocellin Jansson, said she was ‘very strongly  pro-development’ and as an investor in the town herself saw a positive future for Narrabri.

“However, this is an inappropriate development for the area, which is a rural residential sub division” Ms Jansson told the council.

She complimented the applicant, Mr Campbell McIntosh, on the significant investments and achievements in Narrabri he had already undertaken. Mr and Mrs McIntosh have added much to the quality of life and lifestyle in Narrabri with the development of The Crossroads Hotel, Ms Jansson said.

“However, the proposed Riverbend development is inappropriate for the area.”

Riverbend landholder Amber Jansson said the approval of the application for the amendment to the zoning could lead to fragmentation of land use in the  estate.

“If approved it will lead to uncertainty for all residents about future applications for changes to zoning.”

In his address, the third speaker, landholder Mr Will Winston Smith, said the new Narrabri Local Environment Plan (LEP)  embodied an expectation of trust regarding future development.

“I can see a plethora of issues which can flow from approval of the Riverbend application” he said.

These included traffic and safety matters which would accompany higher volumes and the impact on council resources.

Cr Ken Flower moved that the recommendations of the council’s planning department not to proceed with the planning proposal be adopted.

“A lot has been said about the issue. It is a case where  land use planning has wider effects” he said.

“There has been good feedback on people’s concerns about disturbance of the amenity of the area. 

“It should remain a residential area” Cr Flower said.

Narrabri Showgirl a strong contender at regional finals

February 18, 2015, 10:02 pm

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Narrabri Showgirl Sarah Jones has narrowly missed out on selection to attend the state finals in Sydney later this year.

Sarah performed extremely well at the Zone 4 regional finals in Gunnedah last weekend, undergoing a panel interview and an on-stage question and answer session at the Showgirl Ball. 

Contestants also attended a luncheon where they were assessed on social skills, manners and personal conduct. 

Sarah says her time as Narrabri Showgirl has been an incredible experience. 

“I have met some amazing young women, who all share the same interests and are passionate about rural Australia,” she said.

“The other contestants made it such a memorable experience, the personal growth side was a big part of it as well.” 

The Royal Agricultural Society Showgirl competition began in 1962 as a way to celebrate rural women involved in the show movement.

At a local level, judging is based on personality, confidence, ambition, life goals, general knowledge, rural knowledge, presentation and speech.  

Regional finalists are asked to demonstrate ambassadorial qualities, involvement in rural affairs and knowledge of their local community.

Regional finalists also attend an etiquette course focusing on table manners, dress code, and general conduct.

Miss Jones said she received a great amount of support over the last 12 months. 

“I cannot thank the Narrabri Show Society enough for allowing me this opportunity,” she said.

“And I’m not sure what I would have done without the guidance of Showgirl coordinator, Emma Partridge, and outgoing Showgirl, Anthea Guest.”

Entries are now open for the 2015 Narrabri Showgirl Competition.

Moree and Quirindi Showgirls have been selected to represent Zone 4 at state finals this year.