Work starts on vital ‘roadmap’ for shire’s future

FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK

Council has started work on a vital ‘roadmap’ for Gunnedah Shire’s future.

The new Gunnedah Shire Community Strategic Plan is one of the most important plans council puts together because it lays the groundwork for where the shire is heading over the next 10 years.

The first step in the process is the Gunnedah Shire Liveability Survey, launching on Friday, April 17. The survey enables council to hear from the community and provides the opportunity to share what your priorities are, what’s important, what needs to be built and what’s done in the next decade.

We all care about the shire’s future, and this is the plan you need to be part of. I urge you to complete the survey so your voice is heard. The Gunnedah Shire Liveability Survey will be available through council’s socials and website.

Council will also be at the Gunnedah Show on Saturday from 10am to 4pm to share information about the Community Strategic Plan, Gunnedah Shire Liveability Survey and other council information.

Community connection is at the heart of both long-term planning and the moments that bring us together right now. Events like the Gunnedah Show reflect the pride, care and community spirit that makes our shire such a great place to live – the very values the Community Strategic Plan aims to strengthen.

The show is a massive undertaking and without the hard-working members of the Gunnedah Show Society, it would not go ahead. Each year, countless hours go into preparing the grounds, setting up, running activities, and packing up at the end of it all. It’s a fantastic example of community-minded people coming together to provide a family-friendly event for our residents. If you can help in any way, get in touch with the show society. I encourage everyone to pick up a show program so you can plan your weekend, including the family favourite fireworks on Saturday evening.

The sense of community pride from the annual show extends to celebrating the achievements of our young people. I always enjoy sharing their successes, and this week I am delighted to congratulate Katie Spinks on her selection for the National Youth Parliament 2026, representing Parkes.

Katie is a student at St Mary’s College, Gunnedah, and was chosen to be one of 150 participants from more than 2200 applicants across Australia to attend the National Youth Parliament in Canberra from August 16-20.

The program – delivered by the Department of the House of Representatives and Y Australia – gives students the opportunity to take part in simulated debates, workshops, and policy discussions at Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy over a five-day period. Well done on this great achievement, Katie. We hope it is an informative and enrichening experience.

While we are talking about our youth and their future, a quick reminder that the Gunnedah Youth Expo is just around the corner.

On Thursday, April 23, from 9am to 3pm, young people from Gunnedah and the wider region will gather at the Town Hall for the free event, which helps young people explore career pathways, ask questions, and build confidence by connecting them with local employers, training organisations and tertiary education providers.

Stall holders at the annual expo will include local businesses and organisations, universities, TAFE and the Australian Defence Force. Council will also be there with information about career and trainee opportunities.

Young people aged 14 to 24, and their parents and carers are welcome to attend this beneficial event. We look forward to seeing you there.