Local mayors, local planning officers, landholders, academics, and community members had the chance to raise their concerns about the New England Renewable Energy Zone when the Upper House Inquiry came to Armidale on Thursday.
Witnesses who spoke publicly raised concerns on how the REZ is being rolled out with the flawed planning process and the failure of the NSW Government to take their feedback into consideration. Our community has clearly identified many shortcomings and now it is up to the NSW Government to start addressing them.
Happy birthday John Bentley
Armidale’s John Bentley celebrated his 100th birthday on Wednesday and I went along to Uniting Autumn Lodge for his birthday celebrations. Mr Bentley served in the Royal Australian Air Force in World War II.
He celebrated alongside family and friends with a special visit from another veteran in Ron Vickress, who also celebrated his 100th birthday recently. Congratulations to both on reaching this milestone.
Walcha Rotary Club
I had the chance to catch up with Walcha Rotary Club this week. It was fantastic to speak to members of the Walcha community and hear their concerns within the town and the wider region.
Inverell Pioneer Village
I visited Inverell Pioneer Village last Friday to tour it and meet with members of the board. The village has a collection of buildings which date back to 1841 and really show the history of Inverell and surrounds. It makes for a great family school holiday activity.
Armidale’s John Bentley celebrated his 100th birthday during the week.
Thunderbolts Way update
Pending weather, Thunderbolts Way is slated to be re-opened in three weeks. This is great news for the Walcha community.
Service NSW Armidale
Armidale Service Centre – Service NSW – will be temporarily closed for upgrades and relocation.
It will be closed from 5pm, July 25 and re-open on Friday, August 1 at the new premises on 213 Rusden Street. There will be a temporary centre at 169 Rusden Street from July 28 until July 31.
Driver Testing is not available from Tuesday, July 29 to Thursday, July 31.
Virtual fencing update
Progress is being made on legalising virtual fencing in NSW. Consultation with key stakeholders, animal and welfare organisations began this week, including NSW Farmers.
Proposed changes to Land Management Codes
Submissions are open for the proposed amendments to the Land Management (Native Vegetation) Code 2018.The Land Management Codes were implemented in 2018 to allow landholders to have greater flexibility to manage native vegetation, in particular invasive native species on their properties.
The Minns Labor Government has undertaken a review into the operation of the land use codes and is now proposing changes to those codes.
The discussion paper can be viewed HERE.
There are two ways to make a submission: Email to consultation@lls.nsw.gov.au or Post to Land Management (Native Vegetation) Code Amendment Order 2025 Discussion Paper, Local Land Services – Policy Division, PO Box 411, Inverell, NSW 2360.
Submissions close 1 August.
Cricket NSW regional clinics
Cricket NSW’s Country Blitz is coming to Armidale on Tuesday, August5 and Wednesday, August 6.
The two-day clinic will feature two NSW Blues players.
The program involves skill development activities and modified games of cricket aimed at kids new to cricket or are already involved and want to improve their skills in a social setting to uplevel their cricket.
Visit Play HQ Cricket Australia Register Here for more information and to register.
Infrastructure Grants program (Clubgrants Category 3)
Applications for the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants program (Clubgrants Category 3) are now open. Local not-for-profits, schools and councils are encouraged to apply.
These grants are between $50,000 and $300,000 and funding is available for infrastructure projects in four areas: Arts & Culture; Community Infrastructure; Disaster Readiness; and Sport & Recreation.
To apply and to check eligibility, visit Infrastructure Grants Key Information.
Applications close July 21.
Local Sport Grant Program
Applications are open for the Local Sport Grant Program 2025. The program aims to increase regular and ongoing participation opportunities in sport across NSW through accessibility, reducing barriers, improving facilities and more.
Grants of $2000 to $20,000 are available, with up to $50,000 available in each electorate.
Eligible applicants must be incorporated not-for-profit grassroots sports clubs or associations who organise and deliver sporting activities and develop members’ skills.
For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit Local Sport GrantProgram.
Applications close August 18.
Transport Heritage Grants program
The Transport Heritage Grants program aims to help educate the community on NSW transport heritage, improve access to, and support the restoration and conservation of transport heritage assets.
Not-for-profit or charitable organisations with transport heritage in NSW can apply for grants of up to $15,000 (with one of $50,000 per year).
To check eligibility criteria, and to apply, visit Transport Heritage Grants Program.
Applications close August 1 at 5pm.
Commentary by Brendan Moylan, Member for Northern Tablelands
