Week Starting 30/1/22

Have your say on the future of the Upper Hunter Shire

Upper Hunter Shire residents are invited to have their say on the future of the Shire at community consultation meetings in February.

Upper Hunter Shire Council will hold six consultations at Aberdeen, Merriwa, Moonan Flat, Murrurundi, Scone and Cassilis to provide your feedback on the future of the Shire.

Mayor Maurice Collison encouraged residents to share their ideas – big or small – to help shape the future of the Upper Hunter.

“I am encouraging everyone to come down and have their say,” he said.

“We want to hear from as many people as possible. Some people may think that their ideas aren’t important but we need them all so we can continue to make this Shire the best it can be.

“One of the questions we will ask is ‘What are the game changers’ and that points to what are things the Upper Hunter could work towards to ensure the vibrancy, stability and sustainability of the Shire for many years to come.”

Out of the consultation, the Council will form a draft Community Strategic Plan, which will be released in April for further feedback. The plan is a 10-year document that guides Council in its direction and work and is based on the community’s ideas and vision.

“This is your chance to share your vision for the future of the Shire and contribute to this important document,” Mayor Collison said.

“It’s important that we hear from as many people as possible to give us the best chance to get this document right.

“We can’t do everything but if we can understand what the community’s priorities are, we can set the vision and work with our community for better outcomes.”

Details of consultation sessions are as follows:

• Thursday, February 3 at Merriwa School of Arts from 5pm to 5.45pm

• Tuesday, February 8 at Aberdeen Bowling Club from 6pm

• Tuesday, February 15 at Moonan Flat Memorial Hall from 6pm

• Thursday, February 17 at Scone Chambers from 6pm

• Tuesday, February 22 at Murrurundi Bowling Club at 6pm

• Thursday, February 24 at Cassilis Community Centre at 6pm

Residents can also have their say via the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YT2TG6D