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Merriwa Central School
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BREAKFAST MEETING
You’re Invited!
Wednesday 25th June 2025
Merriwa CWA Rooms
7:15 AM arrival for a 7:30 AM start
Key topics include:
Members: $20 | Non-members: $25
Catering proudly provided by the Merriwa CWA Ladies
RSVP & payment due by noon, Monday 23rd June. Please RSVP via Humanitix at https://events.humanitix.com/june-merriwa-chamber…
Whether you’re a local business, community member, or just curious — come along and be part of the conversation shaping Merriwa’s future!___________________________
Royal Hotel Merriwa
TJ Simpson
Merriwa Festival of the Fleeces
Committee Opportunity & AGM
AGM: Wednesday 2nd July at 6:30pm, Merriwa RSL 
Chairperson
Secretary Treasurer
Administrator
Raffles | 
Road closures | 
Volunteer coordination |
Dog High Jump | 
Quilt Show | 
Running of the Sheep |
Entertainment | 
Merchandise | 
Media & Comms |
Car Display | 
Stallholders | 
Colouring Comp & more! AGM: Wednesday 2nd July, 6:30pm at the RSL
Get in touch via festivalofthefleeces.com.au or leave your details at the Visitor Information Centre.Merriwa Surgery
Merriwa Surgery will be closed for 2 weeks from 20/06/25.
We appreciate your support and apologise for the inconvenience.
Merriwa Campdraft
31st August 2025
Cassilis Country Music Inc
STALL HOLDERS WANTED
Calling all stall holders interested in holding a stall at our annual country music weekend.
Please email cassilisccc@gmail.com for more information.
Please note we do not need food stalls as these are already sorted Thank you!
State Matters – A Weekly Bulletin from Dave Layzell MP
Member for Upper Hunter – 16 June 2025
STEP CLOSER – THE LONG overdue upgrade of Singleton Police Station is one step closer with the project now going to tender.
It comes four years after the NSW Nationals and Liberals Government announced a brand new $12 million, fit-for-purpose station for the town.
The Minns Labor Government last week announced an $8.7 million upgrade which includes a major refurbishment of the heritage-listed 1866 building and construction of a new two-storey wing.
Branxton Police Station will maintain the 24/7 response capacity by accommodating Singleton’s officers during construction which is expected to be completed in 2027.
What the Singleton community and I would like to see most of all when the police station is upgraded is that the doors are kept open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
SAFETY NET IN FOCUS – Our Hunter Valley Flood Mitigation Scheme is in the spotlight when the Water Group of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water holds its June Roundup.
Protecting the Hunter Valley: Why flood mitigation matters more than ever, is the theme for the session on Wednesday, 18 June at 11am.
Manager of the scheme, Adrian Milne, will provide a reminder of just how important the infrastructure is to protect communities and how the scheme plays a key role in reducing the effects of ongoing flood events through a network of levees, floodgates, and channels.
An open question and answer session will follow the presentation, so register to join at: https://water.dpie.nsw.gov.au/have-your-say/community/round-up
GLOUCESTER RAP – Residents needing help after the May flood can visit the Gloucester Recovery Assistance Point (RAP) for practical recovery advice and support this week.
The NSW Reconstruction Authority will open the RAP at Gloucester CWA Rooms, 108 Church Street, Gloucester on Wednesday and Thursday 18-19 June, 1.30-5.30pm.
Participating services available include Service NSW, Services Australia, Local Land Services, NSW Health, Rural Adversity Mental Health Program, Australian Red Cross MidCoast Council and Legal Aid NSW.
Keep up to date by calling Service NSW on 13 77 88 or check: www.nsw.gov.au/floodrecoveryupdates
SANDY HOLLOW SURVEY – Transport for NSW is conducting a survey of heavy vehicle operators to help determine the location of the proposed heavy vehicle rest area at Sandy Hollow.
Planning is underway to deliver a formalised off-road rest rea to be located on the northern side of the Golden Highway.
Key features of the rest area will include safe off-street parking bays for heavy vehicles, a dedicated toilet facility for drivers and improved pedestrian safety and town amenity.
The survey is availabe at: https://yoursay.transport.nsw.gov.au/sandy-hollow-heavy-vehicle-rest-area
REZ ROADWORK – EnergyCo is starting work on delivering upgrades at several locations along the Golden Highway to enable the transportation of oversize over mass (OSOM) equipment needed to build renewable energy zones (REZs).
Construction on the Port to REZ projects includes the intersection of Golden Highway with Lonsdale and Pringle streets, Jerrys Plains as well as the intersection of Golden Highway and Vinegaroy Road, Cassilis.
Work at Jerrys Plains will see construction of a retaining wall north-east of Pringle Street, relocating a water main and an existing street light pole and laying new asphalt north of Lonsdale Street, and east of Pringle Street.
At Cassilis, work will include building a right turn lane from the Golden Highway westbound onto Vinegaroy Road, reshaping the verge and batter on the westbound side of the Golden Highway to the north-west of the intersection and installing a new vegetated open drain.
Standard daytime work hours will be Monday to Friday, 7am-6pm, and Saturdays 8am-1pm.
To ensure the safety of crews and motorists, some night work may also occur and, if required, night time hours will be Sunday to Thursday from 6pm to 7am.
If you have questions, please email Port2REZCommunity@BMD.com.au or call 1800 807 561.
MORE ACCOLADES! – More congratulations for Upper Hunter Electorate achievers following the 2025 Hunter Valley Legends Awards held recently at Rydges Resort Hunter Valley.
Husband and wife, Andrew and Lisa Margan of Broke, were inducted as this year’s Wine Living Legend and Tourism Living Legend.
Andrew inducted as a Living Legend in recognition of his long-standing commitment to securing the Hunter Valley’s place among the world’s great wine regions.
Lisa has dedicated more than 30 years to the Hunter Valley’s food, wine and hospitality scene, with a background spanning teaching, nutrition and fine dining, she brought her vision of agri-dining to life in Broke.
Topping off the Upper Hunter’s success, Liz Silkman was awarded 2025 Hunter Valley Winemaker of the Year after a phenomenal 12 months including being the first Hunter Valley winemaker to be awarded the nationally acclaimed Halliday Winemaker of the Year title.
TELEPHONE OUTAGES – Telstra has advised it will have several planned network outages in the Muswellbrook area over the next two weeks.
Maintenance will be conducted on the mobile site located in Glen Munro Road which will reduce Telstra mobile coverage for short periods.
Mobile services in the area will be temporarily affected while the upgrade works are underway and the site will need to be switched off between Wednesday 18 June and Friday 20 June.
Maintenance is also scheduled on the mobile telephone site at Edderton that services the Mount Arthur mine, which will result in short periods of reduced Telstra mobile coverage.
The site will need to be switched off during Monday and Tuesday, June 23-24.
Telstra mobile customers will receive texts advising of the upcoming work.
Telstra customers can continue to make calls and send texts during the disruption to mobile services by switching on Wi-Fi Calling with business owners encouraged talk to their bank about connecting EFTPOS terminals to NBN or Wi-Fi connection to prevent delays in processing transactions.
Landline services, NBN internet services, and mobile coverage from other providers will not be impacted.
Keep up to date on this outage via https://www.telstra.com.au/outages
BROADBAND CHECK-UP – Dungog is the destination for NBN Co on 17 July to discuss opportunities the National Broadband Network (NBN) investment program could bring to the area.
Doug Walters Pavilion will host the visit with Dungog Shire Council encouraging the community to have its say.
Several NBN upgrades have already been rolled out with next month’s visit considered a chance to be part of the conversation about how to strengthen the digital future of the shire.
NBN Co is keen to hear local thoughts and take feedback on opportunities for further investment plus listen to feedback on internet performance and connectivity in your area.
HOSPITAL UPDATE – Health Infrastructure has just released its mid-year progress update on the Muswellbrook Hospital Stage 3 Redevelopment.
Since the start of work on the project in February, progress has been made on the Operating Theatres and minor refurbishment of the Day Stay unit.
Next, the construction team will move its focus to the lower ground undercroft below the hospital’s main entry, which will become the new Community Health space.
The project team has also been working on purchasing major medical equipment which includes audio visual equipment and pendants for the new Operating Room and Procedure Room and sterilising equipment.
For more information about the project including the mid-year update, go to: https://hneinfra.health.nsw.gov.au/projects/muswellbrook
AP COMMUNITY GRANTS – Applications are now open for Australia Post’s 2025 Community Grants program.
Grants of up to $10,000 are available for locally led and delivered projects that improve mental wellbeing outcomes and help people meaningfully connect in their community.
This year, Australia Post is expanding its grants program with an additional $250,000 available to support projects that enhance mental wellbeing, connection and resilience in disaster-impacted communities.
Applications close July 7 with eligibility criteria and information on how to apply available at: https://auspost.com.au/content/dam/auspost_corp/media/documents/2025-australia-post-community-grants-guidelines.pdf
SOCIAL IMPACTS SURVEY – The New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) is inviting the community to complete a survey to help it further understand the community’s views about the social aspects of the project.
Your participation will ensure the New England REZ captures views from community members across the project area with the survey results to inform the project’s social impact assessment.
The survey takes around 20 minutes to complete and is taking feedback until this Friday, 20 June at: www.research.net/r/SocialImpactAssessmentSurvey
A diary reminder that NEREZ will be at the Muswellbrook Markets on Saturday 22 June, 8am-1pm at Muswellbrook Showground, then at Aberdeen Highland Games in Jefferson Park on Saturday 5 July, 8am-4.30pm.
For details about upcoming community engagement activities, go to: www.energyco.nsw.gov.au/ne/working-community
HELMET SURVEY – The results of the NSW Government’s second annual Helmet Safety Testing and Assessment Ratings (STAR) program have been released.
Each helmet is impact tested at the NSW Crashlab where Transport for NSW technicians conduct examinations including vertical drops, a strap strength test and drop tests with moving platforms.
Modelled on ANCAP safety ratings for motor vehicles, Helmet STAR provides an easy-to- understand safety rating for new helmets based on comprehensive testing to provide a guide to parents and adult riders.
Helmets tested include models specifically for skaters and foot scooter riders with the helmet’s ability to protect the user’s head in each scenario tested and a star rating assigned.
The children’s helmet rated as safest overall this year is the Fox Rampage Youth MIPS which retails at $290.
However, a $30 white unicorn helmet available from Kmart was awarded five stars to join the $22 Bluey helmet awarded five stars last year as a value option with the highest safety.
View the latest ratings at: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety/bicycle-riders/helmet-star
Contact:
Email address: upperhunter@parliament.nsw.gov.au;
New Address: 94 John Street Singleton 2330
Postal Address: PO Box 60 Singleton NSW 2330
Ph: 6543 1065
Upper Hunter Shire Council
Transition Process Underway for Gummun Place Hostel Operations
Published on 11 June 2025
Following its decision to commence the transition of aged care services delivered by Gummun Place Hostel to another operator, Upper Hunter Shire Council has been working closely with the Gummun Place Hostel Advisory Committee, the Department of Health and Aged Care, and a number of prospective service providers.
The decision, made at a recent Council meeting, reflects Council’s commitment to ensuring the ongoing provision of quality aged care services in the Upper Hunter Shire.
Chair of the Gummun Place Hostel Advisory Committee and Deputy Mayor, Cr Pat Ryan, said the committee is focused on finding a sustainable solution that supports local aged care needs.
“Council and the committee are endeavouring to find another provider to take on the operation of Gummun Place Hostel in its current form or under a different business model,” Cr Ryan said. “We recognise the importance of Gummun Place Hostel in the community and we are doing everything we can to ensure that the doors remain open.”
As part of the transition process, Council has appointed a new interim Facility Manager, Tim Whyte, who will oversee the day-to-day operations at the Hostel and provide operational support throughout the transition period. Tim has been engaged for a six-month term and brings with him valuable experience in the aged care sector.
Council will continue to provide regular updates to residents, families and staff as the process progresses.
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May 2025, Council Meeting Recap
Published on 28 May 2025
Upper Hunter Shire Council made significant decisions affecting the region’s future at its Ordinary Meeting held Monday, 26 May 2025 at Council Chambers in Scone, with all Councillors present endorsing strategic initiatives focused on financial sustainability, infrastructure investment and community services.
Community Input Sought on 10-Year Financial Blueprint
Council has opened the doors for community consultation on its Long Term Financial Plan, which outlines a decade-long roadmap for responsible financial management and strategic investment across the Shire.
“This plan represents our commitment to transparent, accountable governance,” said Greg McDonald, General Manager, Upper Hunter Shire Council. “We’re inviting residents to review how we propose to fund essential services and infrastructure over the next ten years, and we genuinely want their input.”
The draft plan is available for public review On Councils website and Council offices, with submissions open until Wednesday, 25 June 2025.
Critical Funding Secured for Infrastructure and Services
In a move to address the region’s infrastructure needs, Council has confirmed its adoption of the Special Rate Variation proposal submitted to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).
The variation will enable Council to:
- Accelerate critical road repairs and upgrades
- Enhance community facilities across all townships
- Maintain essential services at current standards
- Future-proof infrastructure for population growth
“This decision wasn’t taken lightly, but it’s essential for keeping pace with our community’s needs and maintaining the services residents rely on daily,” Mr McDonald added.
Community Vision 2035 Sets Bold Direction
Following extensive community consultation, Council has adopted the Community Strategic Plan 2035 – a blueprint created by residents, for residents.
The plan establishes clear priorities for the next decade, focusing on sustainable growth, economic development, environmental protection, and community wellbeing across Scone, Aberdeen, Merriwa, and Murrurundi.
Major Projects Moving Forward
Aged Care Transition Ensures Continued Quality Services
Council has initiated a carefully managed transition process for Gummun Place Hostel in Merriwa, working closely with the Department of Aged Care to identify an alternative operator who can deliver sustainable, high-quality aged care services.
“Our priority is ensuring residents continue receiving excellent care while securing the facility’s long-term viability,” said Mayor Maurice Collison.
Regional Water Security Partnership Advances
Progress continues on the joint water treatment plant project with Muswellbrook Shire Council – a collaborative initiative that will enhance water quality and supply security for both communities while delivering cost efficiencies through shared infrastructure.
Organisational Efficiency Drive
Council has adopted a streamlined organisational structure featuring a two-director model, aligning resources with current financial conditions while maintaining service delivery standards.
Development Concerns Addressed
Council acknowledged community concerns regarding a proposed tourist accommodation development in Merriwa (DA 168/2023), with particular focus on traffic management and impacts on neighbouring businesses. These matters will be carefully considered during the assessment process.
For more details on other matters discussed, please refer to the meeting agenda.
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Media Release: Council’s First Special Rate Variation in Over a Decade
Published on 16 May 2025
Upper Hunter Shire Council has received confirmation from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) that its application for a Special Rate Variation (SRV) has been approved marking Council’s first successful SRV application in over a decade.
The approved funding increase forms a critical part of Council’s comprehensive financial strategy to ensure long-term sustainability and maintain essential services and infrastructure that our community relies upon daily.
The approved variation allows for a 10% increase in general rates each year for three years. This includes IPART’s annual rate peg of 4.3%, with the remaining 5.7% attributable to the SRV. The total cumulative increase over three years will be 33.1%.
Mayor Maurice Collison said the additional income will help Council address infrastructure challenges while avoiding major service reductions.
“This isn’t something we’ve done lightly, this is the first time in a decade that IPART has approved an SRV from Upper Hunter Shire Council. While many other councils have made a number of SRV applications over the last decade. Upper Hunter Shire Council has maintained the recommended IPART rate peg over this period.” Cr Collison said.
“By the third year, the average increase for a residential property in the shire will be around $4 per week but the long-term benefits to our community are substantial. This modest investment will allow us to continue and improve maintenance of local roads, enhance waste services, and ensure our community facilities remain safe and accessible for years to come.”
The SRV application was lodged with IPART in February 2025, following extensive community consultation across our townships throughout 2024. IPART conducted its own independent assessment before delivering this determination that supports Council’s evidence-based approach to financial sustainability.
Council’s draft 2025/26 budget (currently on public exhibition) was prepared on the assumption that the SRV would be approved. Without this approval, significant adjustments would have been required to remove unfunded projects. The budget including the IPART determination will be considered at the June 30 Council meeting.
“We’re committed to transparent communication about how these funds will be used,” added Cr Collison. “Residents can track our progress on key projects through regular updates on Council’s website and community newsletters.”
More information is available at: Special Rate Variation
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MR358 Road (Coulson’s Creek Rd) Rehabilitation Update – 15 May 2025
Soil Stabilisation & Drainage: Rock bolts, rock meshing, and open drain excavation are now 100% complete. Shotcrete Open Drains: Fully completed during this period. Gabion Walls: Construction is now 82% complete and remains a key focus on site. Earthworks: Sitting at 97%, with only minor works remaining. Drainage Transverse Lines & Pavement: Both have progressed to 15%. Table Drains & Kerbing: Early-stage works are now underway (5%).
What’s next? Completion of gabion walls and subsoil drainage Subgrade preparation, placement of select pavement materials, and continuation of cross drainage installation
This project is proudly supported by the NSW State and Australian Federal Governments.———
Monthly Works Schedule – Week Starting Monday, 16 June 2025
Each month Upper Hunter Shire Council prepares a report detailing the work that our infrastructure crews plan to deliver over the coming month.
Scheduled work is merely an indication of what we intend to undertake and is not a guarantee of work being carried out. As factors such as weather, resource availability and unexpected needs can impact Councils priorities for the coming month.
Merriwa
Works Delivery
- Flaggs Road – Grading
- Summer Hill Road – Grading
- Road inspections as required
- Action requests as required
Parks and Facilities
- Amenities maintenance
- Cemetery maintenance
- Parks, sports fields, rest areas, entrances/approaches, Showground Passive areas and reserves mowing and maintenance
- Playground inspections
- Actions requests as required
Water and Sewer
- Water treatment plant operation and maintenance
- Sewer treatment plant operation and maintenance
- Water and sewer distribution systems and actions requests as required
- Water sampling for total hardness
- Water Main replacement – Graeme Street and Reservoir Site
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Please use the Customer Request Management Form available online by clicking here to lodge an action with UHSC.
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