From the Council Chambers - March

Published on 20 March 2026

The March Council meeting length may have been one for the record books, but that didn’t mean the discussion was any less focused.

Councillors clearly had the community interests at heart, with questions or opinions being raised about each item.

Advocating for an accurate Census

A Mayoral Minute opened the meeting, with the Mayor highlighting concerns about potential inaccuracy of the 2021 Census and the importance of full participation on the upcoming 2026 Census night.

Mayor Tiemens explained that temporary workers and residents in outlying towns were likely undercounted last time, which affects the funding and services allocated to the Shire.

“Accurate population numbers ensure the resources our community receives reflect the people living and working here” he said.

Supporting the motion, Cr. Jansson noted that large employers, including mines and farms, have a role in encouraging staff to participate. Council staff are preparing a social media campaign to ensure the Shire is fully prepared to participate on Census night.

A New Vision for Wee Waa

Council explored fresh possibilities for the proposed Wee Waa Community Hall site.

Cr. Towns brought forward a Notice of Motion calling for a re-evaluation of the site’s purpose – an alternate design that reflects growing community feedback. Alongside Cr. Whillas, he emphasised the potential for a shaded garden that honours Wee Waa’s history and culture, offering a space for locals to gather, reflect and connect.

Ideas for a small kiosk, public amenities and seating to support events such as ANZAC Day Services were also raised. Mayor Tiemens asked why these concerns hadn’t emerged earlier, and Councillors noted that with the old NAB building now removed, the community could envision the site’s potential more clearly.

The General Manager supported the approach, noting that staff were focused on refining the project to ensure it aligns with budget parameters before returning to Council for endorsement.  

Cr. Jansson moved an amendment to ensure community engagement continues alongside the investigation into alternative designs.

The motion was endorsed.

Notice of Casual Vacancy

Council received an update on the vacant councillor position following Cr. Brown’s resignation. The NSW Electoral Commission has begun the process to fill the casual vacancy, with candidates from the previous election eligible to put their candidacy forward. A countback is scheduled for Tuesday, 31 March 2026.

Council presence amongst ANZAC Day Services

Councillors openly discussed delegate positions for this year’s ANZAC Day services across the Shire, ensuring everyone community service has representation. Mayor Tiemens reflected on the significance of attending memorials, volunteering for the Wee Waa Dawn Service this year after noting locals had told him, “He’s avoided it for too many years”.

Councillors selected services with community connections, with Cr. Dickinson speaking of his familial ties to the Pilliga area and nominating himself to that memorial service, along with the Narrabri and Narrabri West Dawn services.

Cr. Jansson will be present at Baan Baa and Maules Creek, while Cr. Navan will attend Boggabri and Bellata. Cr. Whillas highlighted he will be in attendance at the Wee Waa march but would begin with the Gwabegar Dawn Service.

Financials in Focus: A Clearer Picture

Clarity was the theme of this month’s financial report, with Cr. Jansson noting a stronger understanding of Council’s current financial position – remarking that the report was easy to digest.

The General Manager acknowledged the work behind it, commending the finance team for their diligence.

“This month’s report was a much-improved read over the reports from the last 12-months” she said.

“With depreciation from the previous financial year now finalised, our position is tracking as expected for this time of year”.

While some revenues are currently slightly ahead of budget and expenditure remaining below, Councillors were informed that this position is largely influenced by timing. However, with ongoing project delivery later in the financial year, an increase in expenditure is expected, bringing Council’s position back in line with its forecast.

It was also noted that with several vacancies across the organisation, and recruitment underway, employee expenditure is expected to rise as roles are filled.

Overall, the report reflects a point-in-time position.

Looking beyond the numbers: NarraBRIGHT

Councillors received an event update for the Shire’s annual event, NarraBRIGHT.

The Director of Development and Compliance confirmed that this year’s event will be bigger and better than ever, and planning for an event of this scale has been complex – she commended the work that’s been done.

Significant funding was received from Transport for NSW’s Open Streets Program, combined with co-contributions from Council, will see the event supported for the next three years.

Cr. Jansson highlighted the economic output that an event like this generates for the community and noted that it also continues to make the Shire a great place to live.

Water Security & PFAS: February Update

While water security discussions seem to have eased, Councillors remained engaged with the latest updates.

The Director of Infrastructure Delivery reported that supply was remaining stable, with the water restrictions transitioning to Level 3.

It was also reported that testing of the proposed new bore at the Saleyards had been completed, with preliminary results looking positive. Following the final report, the bore will be connected to the main supply, enhancing the town’s long-term water security.

Questions were raised about the location of the portable treatment plant, with the Director explaining that the shortlisted tenders will have included the best location for the plant within their submission. It was highlighted by Cr. Dickinson that the level of submissions received during the EOI period was promising.

Flood Funding: Advocacy Continues

Council received the Monthly Flood Damage Status Report, with Cr. Dickinson querying the status of priority structures and causeways damaged during the March/April 2025 flood event.

The Director of Infrastructure Delivery explained that delays in claim approvals are due to outstanding regional claims with the Reconstruction Authority, as well as limited resources affecting processing times.

Council has recently met with the Reconstruction Authority to advocate for the prioritisation of sealed road claims.

The Mayor also wrote to the NSW Minister for Recovery, Hon. Janella Saffin MP, seeking assistance with outstanding flood funding from flood events in previous years. “I’m like a dog with a bone - I won’t let up until we see the cash,” he said.

In Summary

Accurate Census, stronger funding

Community in focus for Wee Waa site

Financial position based on timing

Local events driving economic output

Water, Roads and flood recovery a priority