Gunnedah shire residents question timing of village sign proposal

Refreshed entry signage is being discussed for the Gunnedah shire’s village communities.

Gunnedah Shire Council’s manager economy and growth, Susan Frater, said the shire is looking to update the village entry signs on approach roads at Breeza, Carroll, Curlewis, Emerald Hill, Kelvin, Mullaley and Tambar Springs in early 2025.

“It has been almost 20 years since this signage has been updated and council’s plans to give them a facelift have been very positively welcomed by residents in each of our villages,” Ms Frater said.

“In recent months, council staff have been engaging with locals on site at schools and shops, attending progress association meetings and reviewing themes.

“A survey for village residents to provide input on the structure and layout of our proposed design is now open and closes on January 15, 2025.

“We want each village to put forward suggestions on what image should be included that they feel best represents their area,” she said.

“The survey is seeking information and feedback with council to approve the final design ensuring a consistent welcoming theme across the shire.”

The Breeza village sign was barely legible.

Not all residents outside Gunnedah believe the time is right for new projects given the shire is also proposing a 37.67 per cent special rate variation. It is also seeking to achieve a further $930,000 in revenue through efficiency gains and operational savings.

One resident near Mullaley thought the sign improvement program should be either “put on hold or abandoned” altogether given the proposed rate increase.

At the very least, she said ratepayers are entitled to a cost about much a sign program would cost.

Council’s village sign survey is available online here: https://gsc2380.wufoo.com/forms/village-entry-signs