Week Commencing Monday 20 May 2013

On Wednesday Council’s General Manger, Gary Woodman and myself travelled to Dubbo to attend a Local Government Task Force Meeting, followed by an OROC Meeting to discuss the prospect of Local Government being forced into joining into one large council.

This is happening right throughout the state and our main focus is on Cobar, in other words its proposed forced amalgamation. It certainly was a hot topic of discussion with one option seeing us joined with Central Darling, Bourke, Brewarrina, Walgett and half of Wentworth, half Balranald and Broken Hill. Broken Hill would become the Centre for this Western Region Authority. Just think, when do we ever go to Broken Hill?

Residents should look at our hospital services as an example of what might happen. About 20 years ago the government of the day told us they would make a better system by making Dubbo our regional hospital, we would have the best services available today, but what have we got? We no longer have the same services at our local hospital. This is what will happen to Local Government if the government succeeds in carrying out these changes. The local will be taken out of local government.

This is just one way that states can get rid of Local Government, when in fact I think it should be the State Government that disappears. When we get a federal funding grant for local government, by the time the state takes their administration costs out we receive buckleys.

So please come along to the Community Forum to be held on Monday, 27 May 2013, at 5:00pm at the Cobar Shire Council Chambers and listen to the arguments presented to us and voice your concerns. This is a time where we all need to stand together to protect services in our town.

On Friday, I had a call from Former Olympic Swimmer, Lisa Curry and she has advised that she is coming to Cobar, courtesy of Peak Gold Mine, CSA Mine and the Cobar Bowling and Golf Club. Lisa will be here on the evening of Friday, 31 May 2013 for a Seminar at the “Golfie” on her career, self management, stress techniques, weight loss secrets, fitness tips, and how to live a balanced life. Then on Saturday, 1 June 2013, she will be conducting a Fitness Workshop at the Cobar Sign. So please come to this free community event.

On Friday John Walkom from the Regional Development Australia - Orana rang to advise that Cobar Shire Council had secured funding for the Cobar Skate Park upgrade. This is great news for the youth of Cobar.

Last week, I wrote in my article that the General Manager of Narromine forgot me on our trip to Scone. Well I must apologise to him as he sent an email informing me that he was unable to abide with our travel arrangements to my home computer which is currently broken. Although, I did end up with an exquisite orchid.

Please be advised that a Council Meeting will be held this week, on Thursday, 23 May 2013 at 5:00pm at the Cobar Shire Council Chambers. Please come if you can.

Have a great week. It has started to rain so let’s hope it continues.

Lilliane Brady OAM

Mayor