Works are progressing on the upgrades for a secure water supply to improve water pressure in the townships of Wyalong and West Wyalong.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said this significant water infrastructure project costing almost $14 million dollars is crucial to the future growth and prosperity of the region.
“Water is our most valuable resource, so it is important that we provide water security to our growing communities and ensure we are supporting local businesses and industries who keep our economy strong,” Ms Cooke said.
“As we see continual growth in our seat of small communities it is important that we provide the infrastructure to accommodate this growth not only for now but also for the future,
“Works are progressing well since the first sod turn was made back in October 2022 and I look forward to reaching various milestones along the project as we move forward towards its completion.”
Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack said the West Wyalong Water Reliability project was exactly the type of infrastructure investment he envisioned when establishing the National Water Grid in 2019 as Deputy Prime Minister.
“This significant water infrastructure project is creating jobs and ensuring Bland Shire continues to be the fantastic place it is to live, work and raise a family,” Mr McCormack said.
“I established the National Water Grid in 2019 when I was Deputy Prime Minister to achieve water security outcomes for communities – whether they were large or small – and am so pleased to see West Wyalong benefiting from this investment, of which the former Coalition Federal Government contributed $4.5 million.”
Goldenfields Water General Manager Aaron Drenovski said it’s great to see the project progressing well, as it’s been a long time in the making.
“Well before construction commences, our staff members conducted several studies
and surveys were undertaken to ensure we understood the communities’ concerns and could provide them with a suitable and effective resolution,
“We knew that there were concerns for the town’s water pressure, so we made sure that was the priority of the project as well as allowing for future growth of the town.” Mr Drenovski said.
The bypass pipeline is ahead of schedule with approx. 2.6km of the of the total 8km pipeline completed and is looking to be completed in May 2023.
The reticulation pipeline is underway and on schedule with approx. 1.4km of the total 7km completed, with the pipeline likely to be completed in July.
The reservoir foundations have all been completed and the walls are starting to be constructed, with the reservoir due for completion in August 2023.
The pump station will commence after the reservoir has been completed and is due to be finished by September 2023.
Once complete the West Wyalong Water Reliability Project will improve water flow and water pressure in West Wyalong through the installation of new infrastructure including a reservoir tank, 8km of main water supply pipeline, a 7km water distribution main, and a transfer pump station.
The base of the reservoir alone has 37 tonnes of steel reinforcement and when completed, it will have a volume of 2.8 ML, which is equivalent to 1.12 Olympic size swimming pools.
The West Wyalong Water Reliability Project is a joint initiative with the Australian Government through the National Water Grid Fund Connections Pathway contributing $4.5 million, the New South Wale Government’s Resources for Regions Fund investing $2.65 million, Bland Shire Council providing $800,000 and Goldenfields Water committing $5.25 million.
Steph Cooke | 30 Jan 2023 | Bland Shire Coolamon Shire News Weddin Shire
Motorists will soon have more real-time traffic information data at their fingertips with the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government adding more local roads to Live Traffic NSW.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said we currently have three Councils in the electorate being trained to use the real-time road information platform to deliver more accurate information to motorists.
These Councils include:
Bland Shire Council
Cowra Shire Council
Weddin Shire Council
“We have fast-tracked the onboarding of councils who have been severely impacted by the recent flooding events, which is a major win for those travelling in and out of flood-impacted areas in NSW,” Ms Cooke said.
“This means Councils will be able to upload road closure and incident information to Live Traffic NSW in real time from 23 January 2023, which feeds data into third party apps like Google Maps, Waze and Tom Tom.
“In October, we added the first 22 councils to the platform and a further three in December. These councils have since communicated almost 5,500 road incident updates.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway also revealed emergency broadcast signs are being installed across the state.
“Within weeks we will have installed all 99 signs that will display local ABC radio frequencies so people in our regions know where to turn for emergency information during a natural disaster,” Mr Farraway said.
“This was a recommendation from the NSW Bushfire Inquiry, as was the inclusion of local roads on Live Traffic NSW and we’re getting on with the job of ensuring our communities are safe in times of emergencies.”
The ABC’s Head of Regional, Rural & Emergency Hugh Martin said the signs could serve as a vital reminder for locals and visitors to regional areas.
“By reminding communities where they can turn to for reliable, up-to-date and often life-saving information in times of emergency means those communities are better protected in the future,” Mr Martin said.
“The ABC works closely with all emergency and state services and is the most trusted source of information during an emergency. This roadside information campaign is a timely reminder on where people can go to find the most reliable coverage that will keep them safe.”
Steph Cooke | 18 Jan 2023 | Bland Shire Community Grants News
Weethalle Country Club has been successful in securing funding of $156,213 to install a new kitchen through Round Five of the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said she was delighted to see this project successful for the benefit of members and guests of the Weethalle Country Club.
“I am very proud to have supported the Weethalle Country Club in their efforts to modernise and increase the existing kitchen space,” Ms Cooke said.
“These improvements will also include new cabinetry combined with the increased floor space will give the club kitchen a new lease of life.”
“While the previous kitchen has served the community and visitors to the club well, the small space needed to be expanded to accommodate as more people come through the doors.”
“With local trades from West Wyalong engaged to undertake the work means this project will also be a welcome boost for the local economy.”
Weethalle Country Club Treasurer Leanne Hanlon said it is very exciting news for their small but welcoming community club.
“The upgrades to the Kitchen will allow for more space to move around, which in turn will make it safer and reduce the risk of injuries such as burns,” Ms Hanlon said.
Since 2017, the Stronger Country Communities Fund has invested over $5.2 million for 29 projects across Bland Shire as part of the NSW Government’s $3.3 billion Regional Growth Fund.
Steph Cooke | 17 Jan 2023 | Bland Shire Community Grants News
Bland Shire Council has secured $894,780 in funding to deliver five projects through Round Five of the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has announced the funding which will enhance local attractions as well as boost engagement with local youth.
“I know that Bland Shire Council is investing in their local communities here, and the funding from the NSW Government will provide a helpful boost to these projects,” Ms Cooke said
“I am thrilled that these successful projects cover a vast range of areas such as youth, encouraging tourism, improving local infrastructure for locals and visitors to the region.”
“All of which allow for further stimulation of the local economy including employment opportunities.”
The successful projects awarded to Bland Shire Council include:
Bland Shire Youth Space Coordinator and Programming – $152,192, which will establish a dedicated youth space in West Wyalong. The funding will provide for a Youth Space Coordinator to support social and educational opportunities, youth events and activities, and access to youth outreach services.
Bland Shire Town Signage Project – $307,317, will enable Council to undertake the design, construction and installation of new, modern and engaging entry statements (signage) at key tourist entry points to the Shire as well as to each of the villages. This signage will help to promote the shire and our historic communities.
Active Movement Upgrades – $162,888, will see the renewal of existing pathways in Herridge Park, Wyalong and McCann Park, West Wyalong will significantly improve accessibility and enhance the user experience for locals and visitors.
Bland Shire Heritage Revitalisation – $104,713, will enable protecting the historic fabric of two heritage buildings in Wyalong by replacing the ageing roof, guttering and downpipes and renewing the floor coverings in the Wyalong School of Arts building as well as extending the life of the timber floor by sanding and recoat the floorboards in the Wyalong Hall will meet an identified need while helping to preserve a valuable community asset.
Restoration of Douglas DC3 Dakota Aeroplane Display – $167,670, a well-known landmark feature at the entrance to West Wyalong will be improved with the engagement of experts to undertake the treatment of rust, repainting and the application of historic markings that will reflect the plane’s heritage.
Bland Shire Mayor Brian Monaghan said the funding will assist Council across many areas of its work, celebrating our youth, protecting the future of key buildings, improving our active movement networks and ensuring travellers know they are entering the shire and towns, with hearts of gold.
“The famous DC3 Dakota at Lions Park will be restored to its former glory and provide a point of interest for travellers, as they come into West Wyalong,” Cr Monaghan said.
“Council recognises the need to invest in its communities and renew its existing infrastructure for future generations.”
The Stronger Country Communities Fund has been delivering for local communities, with more than $3.9 million for 21 projects in the Bland Shire since Round 1 of the program.
Steph Cooke | 17 Jan 2023 | Bland Shire Community Local projects News
Work is complete at the Barmedman Shop after the Barmedman Development Association secured $11,000 for roof repairs under the 2021 Community Building Partnership program.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has welcomed completion of the project, with the works carried out by local business.
“The Barmedman Shop, known as ‘Arts and Crafts, Coffee and Cakes’, is a bustling community hub where locals come together to enjoy a cuppa and local produce,” Ms Cooke said.
“It is fantastic to have supported this project to ensure the shop building is well-maintained into the future, for the benefit of the entire community.”
“To have engaged local tradies for the job also keeps the money local, which is great news for our regional economy.”
President of Barmedman Development Association Anne Schubert said it is exciting to have the project finished after some early delays due to wet weather.
“The work was completed in early December and the town is forever grateful,” Ms Schubert said.
“We thank Gary and Nathan Doneley Roofing from Junee for a job well done.”
The Barmedman Progress Association is one of 23 local organisations to receive funding through the 2021 Community Building Partnership.
The program has funded more than 100 community projects across the Cootamundra electorate since 2017.
Steph Cooke | 17 Jan 2023 | Bland Shire Community Grants Local projects News
Barmedman Bowling Club has successfully received $202,500 through Round Five of the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has welcomed the funding which will allow for a refurbishment of amenities at the Barmedman Bowling Club.
“Patrons and visitors of the club will benefit from the modernised facilities and improved overall accessibility,” Ms Cooke said.
“The amenities at the club have not been updated for many years and the refurbishment is very much needed.”
“Patrons and visitors will benefit from the upgrades as there are many community events and private functions held at the venue and adjoining Community Centre.”
President of the Barmedman Bowling Club Michael Owers was thrilled to learn of their successful application.
“We would like to thank Steph Cooke for her support and those locally who assisted with the application,” Mr Owers said.
“The funds will help us to make some big improvements to our facilities.”
The Barmedman Bowling Club is used for recreational and competitive lawn bowls and basketball competitions. A number if local organisations also meet at the club, including the Barmedman RFS Brigade, NSW Farmers Federation, Barmedman Tennis Club and the Barmedman Mineral Pool committee.
Steph Cooke | 15 Dec 2022 | Bland Shire Community Community resources Grants Uncategorized
Bland Shire Council has been successful in receiving over $5.2million to deliver five projects from round nine as part of the NSW Government Resources for Regions program.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke today said this program is vital in providing support to mining communities across regional NSW.
“This is great news for the Bland community and I am thrilled the NSW Government are able to show an ongoing commitment to delivering projects that benefit community, and contribute to our local economy,” Ms Cooke said.
The five projects awarded for Bland Shire Council include:
Main Street Revitalisation Project $95,788
Sport and Recreation Master Plan $107,116
Council Facility Access Audit and Plan $54,300
Bland Shire Community Amenity and Safety Program $499,232
Roads Upgrade Program $4,529,079
Bland Shire Council Mayor Cr Brian Monghan said this funding will assist Council to address our immediate critical transport infrastructure needs while also undertaking strategic planning and community consultation.
“This will allow Council to take a structured, planned and measured approach towards improving community assets and outcomes into the future,” Mr Monghan said.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said Resources for Regions has delivered 355 projects worth $560 million to mining communities since its inception in 2012, stimulating local economies and delivering critical infrastructure.
“The Resources for Regions program is about giving back to these mining communities that contribute so much to the NSW economy,” Mr Toole said.
“I would like to congratulate Bland Shire Council for putting forward these projects which will make big difference for the people and organisations in this local community.”
Steph Cooke | 12 Dec 2022 | Bland Shire Community Grants News
Five community projects within Bland Local Government Area (LGA) have secured combined funding of over $84,000 through the NSW Government’s 2022 Community Building Partnership Program.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said the State Government funds will deliver much-needed improvements and equipment to local facilities.
“I congratulate all the organisations that were successful in their application and look forward to seeing how these projects make a real difference for community groups in the area,” Ms Cooke said.
The following recipients for Bland include:
Kurrajong Waratah – West Wyalong
West Wyalong S & C Club Ltd
Bland Shire Council
Ungarie Rifle Club
The Scouts Association of Australia
Kurrajong Waratah in West Wyalong has been successful in receiving $5,000 to purchase a new ride-on lawn mower and ramp kit.
West Wyalong S & C Club Ltd has been successful in receiving $20,372 to undertake works to provide two access-friendly unisex toilets for each end of the golf course at West Wyalong Golf Club.
Bland Shire Council has been successful in receiving $14,500 to install a safe and secure fence to ensure the safety of the children and community at the Children Services Unit.
Ungarie Rifle Club has been successful in receiving $15,400 to purchase a zero-turn mower.
The Scouts Association of Australia has been successful in receiving $28,863 to replace the Kitchen at West Wyalong Scout Hall.
The Community Building Partnership program has funded more than 18,000 community projects since it commenced in 2009.
For more information about the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program, visit www.nsw.gov.au/cpb.
Steph Cooke | 28 Nov 2022 | Bland Shire News Roads and Transport
Bland Shire Council will soon start receiving funds totalling $870,863.89 for urgent pothole repairs, under the NSW Government’s $50 million Fixing Local Roads Pothole Repair Round.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said the money was going straight into Bland Shire Council’s bank account to help them cover the extra costs and workload pressures following this year’s unprecedented rain and storms.
“These grants are a rapid injection of cash to help councils get on with the job of repairing potholes to get us through the wet summer ahead,” Ms Cooke said.
“This is on top of the ongoing investment in a stronger road network through Fixing Local Roads, Fixing Country Roads and Fixing Country Bridges.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said all 94 regional councils that applied for funding had been approved for grants.
“From December, councils across regional NSW will receive their share of $50 million to repair pothole-ravaged local and regional roads,” Mr Farraway said.
“This additional support will help councils to repair their most damaged roads, improving safety and reducing wear and tear on vehicles.”
“The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is backing our councils with this dedicated pothole repair funding which is the first of its kind in NSW.”
Bland Shire Council General Manager, Grant Baker, welcomed the extra money announced under the Fixing Local Roads Pothole Repair Round.
“We have nearly 900 kilometres of sealed and 2370 kilometres of unsealed local roads to manage across the Bland Shire. Every dollar counts towards ensuring they are repaired as quickly as possible,” Mr Baker said.
“It is our top priority to patch potholes on these roads our community rely on, to improve safety and reduce wear and tear on vehicles.”
Steph Cooke | 10 Nov 2022 | All LGAs Bland Shire Coolamon Shire Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council Cowra Shire Hilltops Council Junee Shire Narrandera Shire News Temora Shire Weddin Shire
Abandoned shopping trolleys, vehicles and other unattended property will spend less time on streets and public spaces, and owners will be more accountable following the introduction of new rules strengthening impounding powers of councils across the electorate.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke welcomed the new regulations which are coming into effect today Tuesday 1 November 2022.
“The NSW Government has again made common-sense changes to rules around unattended property. The new rules put the onus back on owners where it belongs, will save council money and make our streets safer,” Ms Cooke said.
Minister for Local Government Wendy Tuckerman said the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021 replaces the Impounding Act 1993, and places more responsibility on individuals and businesses to better manage their property within reasonable timeframes or face much stronger penalties.
“We’ve developed these new laws following extensive consultation with stakeholders including local government, industry, advocacy groups, state agencies and the community,” Mrs Tuckerman said.
“There will be a six-month grace period where warnings will be issued for unattended property in most cases, rather than fines. We’ve also listened to retailer concerns and introduced more flexibility around requirements to collect abandoned trolleys notified after-hours.”
The PSUP Act includes special powers for authorities to deal with stock animals wandering on public roads and causing a risk to safety, which was widely welcomed by councils during consultation. These provisions will commence at a later date.
The rules also apply to boat trailers, unregistered cars, trailers and caravans, share bikes, and personal watercraft. For full details of the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021 please visit https://dpe.mysocialpinpoint.com.au/unattended-property
