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St Joseph’s Primary School
OPEN DAY
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FESTIVAL OF THE FLEECES
KIDS COOKING
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Royal Hotel Merriwa
come out grab some 
woodfired goodnessLoaded 
Brisket Mac and cheese Ribs and slaw Meat and gravy rolls Fresh Meat 
pies 
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Let’s throw in an extra pre festival Trivia night to kick off the long weekend!
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Merriwa Festival of the Fleeces
The countdown is nearly over… the Festival of the Fleeces kicks off THIS Friday night! 
SATURDAY – THE MAIN EVENT! The iconic Grand Parade (yes the sheep in red socks are ready to strut!)
Stalls full of local goods, treats and treasures
Action-packed working dog trials and the thrilling dog high jump
Kids’ entertainment and rides to keep the little ones smiling
The stunning Quilt Show at the School of Arts — a must-see!
Our pub and clubs are putting on a show with live music, food and festivities
There’s too much happening to list it all here — so jump across to our website to check out the full program and plan your day!
SUNDAY
https://www.trybooking.com/DBAIU https://festivalofthefleeces.com.au/woolshed-tour
Make the most of your June long weekend – come to Merriwa.Merriwa Surgery
Merriwa Surgery will be closed for 2 weeks from 20/06/25.
We appreciate your support and apologise for the inconvenience.
St Joseph’s P&F Merriwa Junior Campdraft
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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 – 2 June 2025
MORE FLOOD SUPPORT REQUIRED – THE NSW Nationals and Liberals are calling for the urgent roll out of category C and D disaster grants to help businesses and primary producers severely impacted by the devastating flooding event in the Hunter, Mid-North and North Coast regions.
It comes after flood-hit communities including in the Upper Hunter Electorate were left off the NSW Government’s eligibility list for personal hardship payments of $180 for individuals and up to $900 per household.
The Coalition argues the Minns and Albanese Governments need to enact the updated declarations to begin the recovery process now and carry out a complete revision of all areas included to make sure no one misses out.
The NSW and Australian Governments announced on 22 May that support was available under the joint Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) for LGAs covered by a Natural Disaster Declaration which included MidCoast, Dungog, Singleton, Muswellbrook, Upper Hunter, Cessnock and Maitland: www.service.nsw.gov.au/services/emergencies-and-natural-disasters
The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) for eligible LGAs including MidCoast, Dungog and Maitland was announced on 27 May: www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/nsw-east-coast-severe-weather-and-flooding-may-2025-agdrp
The Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) to provide short-term income support to help people who lost income due to the disaster was also announced for Upper Hunter, Muswellbrook, Singleton, Cessnock and Maitland LGAs: www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/nsw-east-coast-severe-weather-and-flooding-may-2025-dra
“There will be a time and place to dissect where and why the joint Commonwealth-state rollout went wrong but for now we need this fixed immediately so the money can get out the door as soon as possible,” Mr Layzell said.
ASSISTANCE STILL AVAILABLE – The NSW Reconstruction Authority and partner agencies are continuing to operate Recovery Centres in locations impacted by the recent severe weather event.
Residents can visit a Recovery Centre for practical recovery advice and support.
The Taree Recovery Centre at the Manning Uniting Church is operating this week, Monday-Thursday 10am-6pm, Friday 10am-4pm and on Saturday 9am-12pm.
Maitland Recovery Centre at Maitland Town Hall is open Monday-Thursday 10am-6pm and Friday 10am-4pm.
Recovery Assistance Points are also being held by the NSW Reconstruction Authority and partner agencies this week.
Gloucester Bowling Club hosts the Gloucester Community Event on Tuesday 3 June, 6-8pm, and the Dungog Recovery Assistance Point is being held at Dungog Showground, Wednesday 4 June, 2-7pm.
To check recovery assistance and wellbeing support for areas impacted by floods and storms go to Flood recovery information: www.nsw.gov.au/emergency/floods/recover/flood-recovery-updates
FARM FLOOD SURVEY – Flood impacted farmers and primary producers are being asked to complete the Primary Industries Natural Disaster Damage Assessment (PiNDDA) survey, when it is safe for them to undertake the task.
The survey collects information for the NSW Government that can help shape recovery programs and support.
The damage survey allows farmers to record the number of crops, animals, and infrastructure damaged by the floods, and advise on the severity of damage in their locality.
To make a submission, visit the portal at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/damage
DOUBLE DEMERITS RETURN The King’s Birthday long weekend will see the resumption of double demerit points later this week.
Road safety enforcement activities will be stepped-up for four days from Friday morning 6 June until Monday night 9 June.
The campaign reminds drivers and riders that during double demerit periods the penalties for breaking the road rules are more severe.
The system provides an incentive for drivers to improve their driving behaviour, obey road rules and comply with NSW traffic laws.
If you get caught speeding, using a mobile phone illegally, riding without a helmet, not wearing or incorrectly wearing a seatbelt or carrying passengers not wearing or incorrectly wearing a seatbelt or restraint, you will face double the points, not double the fine.
SOLAR DA APPROVED – The NSW Independent Planning Commission has approved the Muswellbrook Solar Farm, subject to conditions.
To be located adjacent to and within the site of the former Muswellbrook Coal Mine, the development includes a 135-megawatt solar farm, a 135 Mega Watt / 270 Mega Watt hour battery and associated infrastructure.
The decision has been made following a comprehensive process including hearing from the community and relevant subject matter experts, and considered the formal assessment conducted by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.
A full Statement of Reasons for Decision has been published which provides a detailed explanation of the determination.
All information and documents related to the project can be viewed through the Commission’s website: www.ipcn.nsw.gov.au/cases/2024/12/muswellbrook-solar-farm
TREASURES RECOGNISED! – Congratulations to the Upper Hunter Electorate’s three treasures who have been included on the 2024 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll.
Denise Bell of Aberdeen, Singleton’s Gail Solman and Jo Woods from Branxton are among the 74 women nominated for the latest edition of the roll.
Jo nominated for her volunteering to undertake the Branxton Community Preschool outdoor playground expansion and landscaping over the last 12 months.
Gail, the Upper Hunter Electorate 2024 Local Women of the Year, was nominated for her various contributions to netball in Singleton.
And, Denise for her passion volunteering with Athletics in Aberdeen, from foundation member in 1991 to taking on numerous executive positions over the next 10 years.
Hidden Treasures, is a NSW Government initiative coordinated by the NSW Rural Women’s Network, for nominees who embody the spirit of volunteering with their invaluable contributions.
Whether it is in health and medical research fundraising, volunteer firefighting or coaching students as a volunteer, they have through their efforts, created vibrant, connected and inclusive communities.
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll so nominate our unsung heroes who go above and beyond: https://hiddentreasures.awardsplatform.com/
BRIDGEWORK AHEAD – Cockfighter Bridge on the Golden Highway, Warkworth will be the focus of upcoming essential road improvement work.
Work will take place in two stages replacing old concrete barriers with new steel post and rail traffic barriers, along with safety upgrades on the bridge approaches.
From Monday 16 June to Friday 27 June, work will be carried out Monday to Friday, 7am- 6pm, with bridge deck activities restricted to 7.30am-4pm and Saturday work 8am-1pm.
From Sunday 30 June to Friday 31 October, work will transition to night shifts from Sunday to Thursday nights, 6pm-4am, weather permitting.
Transport for NSW will conduct remaining suitable tasks that can be completed during the day, and day shifts may be scheduled as required.
Lane closures with stop/slow traffic control and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place during work hours.
For the latest traffic updates call 132 701, visit www.livetraffic.com or download the app Live Traffic NSW.
UPPER HUNTER SERVICE STOPS – Service NSW’s mobile service centre returns to the Upper Hunter electorate during June and July.
Cowper Street, Stroud is first stop on Friday 20 June from 8.30am to 12.30pm.
Service NSW will set up the Mobile Service Centre in Grey Street, Clarence Town on Monday 23 June, 12.30-3.30pm.
The Mobile Service Centre heads to Mayne Street Murrurundi on Tuesday 1 July between 9am and 3pm.
Scone then hosts Service NSW on Wednesday 2 July and Thursday 3 July, 9am-4pm both days at Upper Hunter Shire Council in Liverpool Street.
Services include the Savings Finder program to access more than 70 government rebates and vouchers, you can apply for birth, death and marriage certificates as well as undertake Hazard Perception Tests.
Discover the services that can be accessed by visiting: www.service.nsw.gov.au/mobile-service-centres
MINING REGULATION INPUT – Consultation is being undertaken until Wednesday 18 June on the proposed Mine and Petroleum Site Safety (Cost Recovery) Regulation 2025.
The proposed regulation supports the Mine and Petroleum Site Safety (Cost Recovery) Act 2005, which provides for the funding of regulatory activities in relation to safety at mines and petroleum sites in NSW.
The Act has established a Mine and Petroleum Site Safety Fund for this purpose.
The proposed regulation will remake the Mine and Petroleum Site Safety (Cost Recovery) Regulation 2019, which is due to be automatically repealed on 1 September 2025, with minor changes.
An explanatory guide is available which provides an overview of the proposed regulation and the intended changes.
NSW Resources invites written comments and submissions on the proposed regulation: www.resources.nsw.gov.au/mining-and-exploration/applying-to-explore-and-mine-nsw/public-consultation/mine-safety-cost
LONG WEEKEND EVENTS – Broke will showcase why it has qualified for the NSW Top Tourism Town Awards when the Broke BBQ Festival holds centre stage across the June long weekend.
The village at the foot of the Broken Back Range recently made its back-to-back silver in the Tiny Tourism Town category for a population under 1500 residents.
Gloucester took bronze in the Small Tourism Town section for towns with a population between 1,500 and 5,000.
The Broke BBQ Festival will have a range of attractions and activities including boutique beer, wine and spirits, live bands, cooking demonstrations, a children’s activity zone and plenty of mouth-watering barbecuing.
Festival of the Fleeces will also see Merriwa abuzz with this year’s theme being ‘The Magic of Wool’.
Friday night’s opening event will be followed by the red-socked ovines on Bettington Street at midday Saturday for the Running of the Sheep, with woolshed tours to wrap-up festivities on Sunday.
For updates on the Broke BBQ Festival check: www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/Experience/Visit and, Festival of the Fleeces: https://festivalofthefleeces.com.au
NUMBER SCREENING CHECK – A trial is currently being conducted on a new Number Screening Check with more than 7,000 Year 1 students being assessed across 165 NSW public schools.
The screening check is part of the NSW Government’s plan to lift numeracy outcomes and is also a key component of the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement signed with the Australian Government in March.
The teacher-led check takes 10-15 minutes to complete for each student and assesses core foundational learning skills key to later success in maths and numeracy.
Teachers will use the results to provide students with targeted assistance in areas such as counting, ordering numbers, addition and subtraction.
The Number Screening Check supports the existing Year 1 Phonics Screening Check, to provide teachers with an early view of an individual student’s capabilities.
APPLY NOW! – Applications are now open for the 2025 Future Women (FW) Jobs Academy which will commence in early August.
Flexible, free and online, the year-long program equips women with the skills, networks and confidence they need to re-enter the workforce following a career break.
The innovative pre-employment initiative offers a curated mix of learning, mentoring and community to assist participants navigate evolving job search tools, employer expectations and workplace environments.
The NSW Government is focused on supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, women from culturally diverse backgrounds, women living with disability and women living in regional, rural or remote areas.
For more information and to apply, visit the Future Women Jobs Academy web page: www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/future-women-jobs-academy
MORE EV CHARGERS – Singleton and Willow Tree have secured two of the latest electric vehicle (EV) charging grants announced by the state government.
This latest round of funding is boosted by private investment that will see a total of $41.2 million to roll-out the new charging ports which will all be powered by renewable energy.
The five successful grant recipients to install the new EV chargers are BP, Energy Australia, Plus ES, Tesla and NRMA.
Cutting-edge fast and ultra-fast chargers will deliver rapid charging that replenishes EV batteries from 10 to 80 per cent in just 10-15 minutes.
Many of the chargers will be accessible for drivers with a disability and they will include pull- through charging bays to accommodate EV drivers towing caravans, boats and trailers.
UON SCHOLARSHIPS – Current and prospective students of the University of Newcastle (UoN) are being encouraged to apply for scholarships that may assist with their tertiary education.
More than $4 million in scholarships are awarded each year to UoN students who meet the eligibility criteria.
Scholarships are designed to recognise achievement and support enthusiastic and dedicated students with further information at: www.newcastle.edu.au/scholarships
UoN’s 2025 Open Day is being held at the Callaghan and Newcastle City campuses on 16 August, 9am-3pm, with prospective students urged to sign up now at: www.newcastle.edu.au/open-day
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
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.———
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