Adam Marshall MP | Politician

Adam Marshall MP

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25.01.2022 MORE FUNDING FOR BUNDARRA SHOWGROUND UPGRADES I was thrilled to deliver some more good news for the Bundarra Showground Trust and Bundarra Show Society volunteers recently - another $125,000 grant from the State Government. This funding will be used to put all the ground’s electrical infrastructure underground, making life much safer for users and saving the showground trust lots of dollars in the long run in maintenance costs.... The showground has recently had its new shower and toilet block completed, as well as new seating and staircase around the campdraft arena. Well done to the dedicated band of volunteers who do so much to maintain this important community space! Bundarra, New South Wales, Australia Uralla Shire Council Uralla Wordsworth Inverell Times 1188 2NZ ABC New England North West The Land ABC Rural Bundarra General Store Bundarra Central School Bundarra Lions Park Commercial Hotel Bundarra Grace Munro Aged Care Centre The Working Sheep Dog Show Agricultural Societies Council of NSW Ltd Royal Agricultural Society of NSW Inverell Shire Council John Barilaro Melinda Pavey

25.01.2022 GOING FOR GROWTH: $6.5M ARMIDALE REGIONAL AIRPORT BUSINESS PARK OFFICIALLY TAKES-OFF It’s business class passengers only at Armidale’s newest business and industrial precinct, with the $6.5 million Armidale Regional Airport Business Park now ready for take-off. It was a huge thrill last Thursday to help officially open the first stage (24 blocks) of the business park.... With more than 200 new jobs set to be created through the park’s development, this is the biggest employment creation project Armidale has seen for decades. This is the first foundation stone of the economic renaissance this region will enjoy, if it’s bold and untied enough to grasp it. The new business park will pave the way for Armidale to reach its full economic potential, to support and grow existing general aviation and aviation related business activity in the region as well offering space to develop freight services and white collar office space. The 24 lots have all been connected to water, lighting, NBN fibre and electricity. The construction of heavy-duty internal roads will ensure businesses, in particular potential logistics companies, are able to maximise the New England Highway frontage and connection to the airport. Targeted infrastructure investment in regional NSW attracts business investment, creates new jobs and makes our villages, towns and regional cities more attractive places to live, work and operate. I look forward to seeing the economic impact for the broader New England region as businesses, both locally and from away, choose the airport business park to launch their next big venture. The State Government has contributed $6 million to the Armidale Regional Airport Business Park, under the Growing Local Economies Fund, with a further $1.5 million for the airside upgrade completed earlier this year. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/6-5m-armidale-regional-air/ Armidale Regional Council 2AD Armidale Express PRIME7 News North West ABC New England North West John Barilaro Our Regional NSW Armidale Business Chamber The Land

25.01.2022 2020 INVERELL ART PRIZE OFFICIAL OPENING Despite everything going on at the moment, Inverell still turned it on last light for the opening of the 2020 Inverell Art Prize. It was a real pleasure to attend and an honour to open this year’s exhibition, with some outstanding works on display from local, regional and Australian artists.... Crowd numbers were kept to a minimum due to the pandemic, but that did not dampen the spirits - it was just wonderful to have a community event for people to attend! Huge congratulations to Christine and Jane at the gallery, and the gallery committee, on undertaking an enormous amount of work to ensure this annual event did not miss a beat this year! Inverell Art Gallery Inverell Art Inverell Art Gallery Inverell Shire Council Inverell Times 1188 2NZ Tourism Inverell Create NSW Inverell Chamber of Commerce & Industry Bindaree Beef Inverell Simply Print Anything Richard Crookes Constructions Inverell RSM Club Avern McIntyre & Co ABC New England North West

25.01.2022 OPENING OF NEW BINGARA POOL COMPLEX What a fabulous way to beat the weekend’s heat! It was an absolute thrill and honour to officially open the new $2.4 million Bingara Pool complex on Saturday.... Funded by the State and Commonwealth Governments and Gwydir Shire Council, the new 25m pool replaces it’s leaking and dilapidated 33m predecessor, built in 1964. The works also included a new and upgraded kiosk, function room, splash park and modernised toilets and changerooms. The finished product is a credit to the council and community, especially the swimming club, which had long campaigned for a new facility for the district’s youngsters. To mark the opening, it was announced that entry to the Bingara and Warialda pools would be completely FREE this season, meaning there is no excuse for not being at the pool to beat the heat! While I consider myself more of a ‘land dweller’ even I was tempted into the new pool for a unique opening, and, much to the shock and dismay of those present, bared more of my body than I would normally care to...all in the name of a bit of fun! It was a wonderful day for the community and I hope locals and many visitors enjoy it for decades to come. Bingara Swimming Pool Mark Coulton MP Wade Horses Bingara Bingara Riverside Camping Area Bingara Central School Bingara & District - Vision 2030. John Barilaro ABC New England North West PRIME7 News North West The Gwydir News Bingara Swimming Pool Swimming NSW

24.01.2022 FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF NEW ARMIDALE SECONDARY COLLEGE Take look at this amazing video below , shot and produced by students and staff, on their first walkthrough and impressions of the new $121 million Armidale Secondary College. It’ll be open to students and staff day 1, Term 1 next year.... I think you’ll agree, they’ve done a great job! NSW Department of Education Armidale Express Armidale Regional Council ABC New England North West PRIME7 News North West Sarah Mitchell MLC John Barilaro

24.01.2022 NEW TEACHER POSITION ‘BACKS IN’ BACKTRACK YOUTH WORKS ARMIDALE Students at BackTrack Youth Works in Armidale were last week been given an A+ to a State Government-funded teaching position which has been supporting their education throughout 2020. I brought Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell MLC to town to visit BackTrack’s classroom last week, where they met with founder Bernie Shakeshaft, teacher James Warne, staff and students.... Every child deserves the chance to have an education, no matter their background, which is why we are throwing our support behind BackTrack, to ensure students who have fallen through the cracks have a future. The teacher has been funded for 12 months to support the educational development of students, many of which have struggled in the mainstream school system. The position, which has been allocated for the 2020 school year, is accountable to the Principal of Martins Gully Public School and will be reviewed at the end of Term 4. Without the professional and caring nature of educators like James many of these young men and women would still be struggling in the classroom. It has been great for the Minister to see first-hand the positive impact BackTrack is having in changing young lives, and I hope her visit will be beneficial in securing funding to continue that teachers role next year. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/new-teacher-position-backs/ NSW Department of Education Armidale Express 2AD Bronnie Taylor MLC John Barilaro PRIME7 News North West

22.01.2022 $1.2B PUMPED HYDRO PROJECT JEWEL IN REGION’S RENEWABLES CROWN Earlier this week I welcomed Energy and Environment Minister Matt Kean MP and Water Minister Melinda Pavey back to the region to announce the $1.2 billion Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro project, near George’s Junction in the far east of the Northern Tablelands, has been declared Critical State Significant Infrastructure by the State Government. The declaration will see the project fast-tracked, ensuring the 600 l...ocal construction jobs and 600 megawatts of renewable hydro power annually, will be delivered up to three years ahead of schedule. This project will be the jewel in the renewable energy crown for the Northern Tablelands and cements our region as the renewable energy powerhouse for Australia. We’re already home to the two largest windfarms in NSW and the largest solar farm in Australia will begin construction before Christmas, so this project is the cherry on top for us! The Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro project includes the construction of two reservoirs, tunnels and a new underground power station to enable water from the lower reservoir to be pumped into the top reservoir using excess renewable energy. The water will be released to generate up to 600MW of hydro power during periods of peak demand. Unlocking new energy storage is a key element of the State Government’s REZ program. The location of the Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro project means it may be eligible to connect to the electricity network alongside other new energy generation projects as part of the recently announced 8,000 MW New England REZ. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/1-2b-pumped-hydro-project-/ Alinta Energy ABC New England North West John Barilaro The Land ABC Rural PRIME7 News North West Armidale Express Armidale Regional Council Lower Creek, New South Wales, Australia

22.01.2022 358KM OF FENCING FOR BUSHFIRE-HIT LANDHOLDERS IN NORTHERN TABLELANDS It feels like a lifetime ago, but the landholders whose properties were burned in last summer’s horrific bushfires have not been forgotten and are still receiving vital assistance. Through the State Government’s Supporting Our Neighbours program, which helps replace bushfire-damaged boundary fencing, $1,884,400 in funding has been provided to landholders in our region.... That’s more than 350km of fencing rolled out across the Northern Tablelands - enough to stretch from Armidale to Mungindi! Fencing loss was a major issue for local farmers during the devastating bushfire season, which is why the government committed $209 million to the program. But there’s still more work that needs to be done and more landholders who need a helping hand, so today I am urging everyone who needs support to get their applications in. Even if you’ve already completed the work you may still be eligible for reimbursement. The program allows eligible landholders to receive a one-off grant of up to $5,000 per kilometre to purchase fencing materials. I’ve seen first-hand in our region how much help this can provide after was a devastating summer. Please, get your applications in, because I’d hate to see anyone miss out. Details of approved applications and funds distributed, by local government area, are: Armidale Regional - $1,308,900 funding 242km in fencing; Glen Innes Severn - $460,000 funding 92km in fencing; Inverell - $102,500 funding 21km in fencing; and Moree - $13,000 funding 3km in fencing For more information about the Supporting our Neighbours program and to apply, visit www.lls.nsw.gov.au/fencing or call 1300 778 080 Local Land Services NSW NSW Department of Primary Industries NSW Rural Assistance Authority Northern Tablelands Local Land Services John Barilaro Our Regional NSW The Land ABC New England North West ABC Rural NSW Young Farmers NSW Farmers National Farmers' Federation

22.01.2022 CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON $7 MILLION ARMIDALE SERVIES MOTEL Yesterday I was thrilled to help celebrate the start of construction of the new $7 million Armidale Servies Club Motel, heralding the project as a turning point for economic confidence in the city. I joined Armidale SerVies CEO Scott Sullivan and Board Vice President Mark Bullen to turn the first ceremonial sod of soil on the 32-room 4.5 star development, which will be built between the club and Belgrave Cinema.... For the first time in 15 years Armidale is going to have a new motel that will deliver new jobs and new visitor opportunities to the city. Such a large level of private investment, following the drought and pandemic, shows the business community has faith in Armidale’s long-term economic recovery. With Armidale’s tourist visitation around sitting around 600,000 people a year it’s important we provide accommodation options that can service a variety of needs, including international guests. Also, with the first stage of the Armidale Regional Airport Business Park complete and planned relocation of the NSW Department of Regional NSW progressing, the demand for overnight accommodation as new operators establish themselves will be astronomical. I know under the current circumstances it is very easy for business operators to get down, however I believe the Armidale region is approaching a period of growth and we all need to be gearing up to capitalise on its arrival. I want to thank all Armidale’s accommodation providers for keeping their doors open, continuing to employ locals and giving travellers a reason to stop, stay and spend in our special part of the world. The motel will boast 28 standard rooms, one family room sleeping up to four guests and two deluxe suited for weddings and special events. Local firm Rice Construction Group will undertake the project, due for completion in January next year. Congratulations to Scott Sullivan and the SerVies Board for embarking on this bold development! MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/construction-begins-on-7-m/ Armidale Express Armidale Regional Council 2AD ABC New England North West Business New England John Barilaro Damien Tudehope Rice Group

21.01.2022 $10,000 TO HELP RESTORE BOOMI WAR MEMORIAL HALL ARCH The prominent commemorative arch at the front of Boomi War Memorial Hall will be restored this year, thanks to a $10,000 injection from the State Government’s Community War Memorials Fund. It was a pleasure to give the good news personally to local Hall Committee members.... The entry arch and fence at the front of hall will undergo significant improvements ahead of the building’s centenary. This year marks 100 years since Boomi War Memorial Hall was built to remember the many locals who served in the Great War. Following World War II, a striking stone entry arch and fence was added to the front of the hall by returned servicemen, in recognition of their sacrifice. This grant will straighten the granite fence posts, which over time have developed a lean and put strain on the archway structure. The chains, which run along the top of the fence, will be repainted, as will the inscription of ‘Lest We Forget’ inscribed across the face of the arch. The Boomi community is planning a large public event to recognise the hall centenary this year and it will be very special for the descendants of those who served to have the building and its surrounds looking their absolute best. Boomi Artesian Baths & Community Co-Op Boomi Pub Boomi Public School Moree Plains Shire Council Moree Champion Radio 2VM NOW FM Geoff Lee - MP, Seat of Parramatta John Barilaro RSL NSW Moree RSL Sub-Branch

21.01.2022 TEMPORARY SUPERMARKET TO OPEN IN MUNGINDI TOMORROW From tomorrow, people in Mungindi will again be able to purchase groceries and essential items in their home town, with a pop-up supermarket opening its doors following the destruction of the SPAR Supermaket less then two weeks ago. Late last week I was in town and visited the disused RSL Club building where the temporary supermarket is based and met with members from the Mungindi Progress Association (MPA), which h...as been involved with establishing the business. It won’t be just milk and bread on the shelves with locals able to access the majority of essential items normally found in their grocery store aisles. Last week members of MPA, led by Anna Harrison and Peter Prosser, have been frantically installing shelves, fridges and freezers in the RSL building, ahead of the delivery of initial stock from SPAR over the weekend. Apart from man hours, the set-up of the supermarket has come at no cost to Mungindi locals, with the fit out and first delivery of products covered in the $100,000 provided by the State Government. It has been important this supermarket is accessible to all, with MPA and Moree Plains Shire Council working closely with local groups and Aboriginal organisations to ensure all sections of the community can access what they need. Shoppers will be able to use cash for purchases, with Eftpos facilities also available. Already pushed to the brink by drought and COVID-19 border restrictions, Mungindi is a resilient community which refuses to lay down. The way the town has rallied behind the owners of the three destroyed businesses and worked to pull this store together in just over a week is a real credit to its unwavering community spirit. Mungindi RSL Club Red's Quality Meats Mungindi Mungindi Races Two Mile Hotel, Mungindi Mungindi SHOW Society Prosser Hutton PTY LTD Moree Champion Radio 2VM ABC New England North West John Barilaro

20.01.2022 Safety first......

20.01.2022 NEW MURAL TELLS THE STORY OF INVERELL SCOUTS GROUP I recently has the pleasure of stopping by to appreciate the new spectacular mural, showcasing the activities of NSW Scouts, which now covers the Inverell Scout Hall, funded by a $35,852 State Government COVID-19 Stimulus grant. This mural, painted by local Gilgai artist Ken Brindley, pays tribute to the great work NSW Scouts does in encouraging young people to get outdoors and be active.... Funded as part of a $1 million State-wide COVID stimulus program, the mural depicts the local Scout members camping, canoeing and generally engaging with the great outdoors. Also, this grant has repainted the rest of the outside of the hall and installed new high visibility signage along the road, outside of the building. The Inverell Scout Hall is an important part of that community, servicing around 30 youth members and four adult leaders, as well as acting as a venue for other community organisations to hold gatherings. These works have made the hall really stand out and given local Scouts a base to be proud of as well. Inverell Shire Council Inverell Times 1188 2NZ Scouts Australia International Scouts NSW ABC New England North West John Barilaro

20.01.2022 ONLY 10KM TO GO ON $14.5 MILLION CARRIGAN ROAD SEALING PROJECT With more than 44 kilometres of the notorious gravel Carrigan Road (MR507) - between Boomi and Mungindi - now widened and bitumen sealed by Moree Plains Shire Council, this massive $14.5 million project is almost complete! Yesterday I took a drive along the road to inspect how the State Government’s investment is making such a huge difference to this incredibly productive part of our region. ... Take a look below Moree Champion Moree & District Chamber of Commerce Radio 2VM NOW FM NSW Roads My Moree Transport for NSW Paul Toole MP John Barilaro Melinda Pavey NSW Farmers Livestock, Bulk and Rural Carriers Association Boomi Pub Boomi Public School Boomi Artesian Baths & Community Co-Op Boomi, New South Wales, Australia Transwest Mungindi Mungindi Servo Mungindi SHOW Society Mungindi Races Two Mile Hotel, Mungindi Shafay's Mungindi St Joseph's School Mungindi Prosser Hutton PTY LTD ABC New England North West ABC Rural The Land PRIME7 News North West

20.01.2022 The temporary supermarket, Mungindi Community Store, is up and running after the terrible fire. Please support the community, drop in and make a purchase! Mungindi RSL Club Mungindi Progress Association

19.01.2022 It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas....in Moree Moree Plains Shire Council Moree Champion Moree & District Chamber of Commerce Radio 2VM Tourism Moree Inc

19.01.2022 Cyril the Wonder Cat posing for the camera while enjoying this morning’s warming rays #catsoffacebook

19.01.2022 ST MARY OF THE ANGELS PRIMARY GUYRA PRESENTATION EVENING It was wonderful last week to attend the presentation evening for St Mary of the Angels School in Guyra and help celebrate the end of a challenging but very successful year for students and staff. Plenty of parents and carers were also present, which was great to see.... Congratulations to Principal Sharon Wittig and all the staff on such a special and fun evening! Guyra Gazette Guyra & District Chamber of Commerce Armidale Regional Council ABC New England North West 2AD Sarah Mitchell MLC Diocese of Armidale John Barilaro

19.01.2022 NEW TENNIS COURT FOR GRAVESEND Hot on the heels of the recent opening of the new shower and toilet block, the Gravesend Recreation Ground is now home to a brand new tennis and multi-sport court! Supported by the State Government, this new court has long been a priority for the local community and the neighbouring Gravesend Public School - to provide yet another facility for people to gather and have fun.... The school students have already been giving the court a work out and I’m sure many locals will also enjoy playing here. Gwydir Shire Council The Gwydir News Gravesend, New South Wales, Australia Gravesend Hotel Gravo Pub ABC New England North West The Land Tennis NSW Tennis Australia John Barilaro

18.01.2022 $203M NEWELL HIGHWAY REBUILD SOUTH OF BOGGABILLA POWERS AHEAD The COVID-19 pandemic has failed to slow progress on the $203 million Newell Highway upgrade from Mungle Back Creek to Boggabilla, with another four-kilometre section at the southern end of the project now complete. We all know how important the Newell is and this upgrade will deliver 27 kilometres of new road with 3.5 metre wide lanes in each direction, wider road shoulders and two new overtaking lanes.... It will improve productivity along one of the State’s most important freight corridors and deliver safer, more reliable journeys for all road users. Since March this year, motorists have been travelling on a new 18-kilometre section of highway, widened to accommodate higher productivity heavy vehicles, along with major intersections upgraded to improve safety. The great news is by the end of December another milestone will be achieved with a further five-kilometre section due for completion. The project has bee. a welcome boost to the local economy, providing 582 jobs since it started, with a focus on Aboriginal participation. Up to the end of September, expenditure on Aboriginal participation in this project had clocked past the $3 million mark, equivalent to 61,108 hours. The work is funded jointly by the NSW and Australian governments, with a total commitment to both stages of the project totalling $203 million. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/203m-newell-highway-rebuil/ Moree Champion Moree & District Chamber of Commerce Transport for NSW NSW Roads Paul Toole MP John Barilaro Mark Coulton MP Michael McCormack MP Livestock, Bulk and Rural Carriers Association NSW Farmers

18.01.2022 This is now what I wake up to every morning at home - Cyril the Wonder Cat giving me the You’ve had enough sleep, I’m hungry look.... #catsoffacebook #hungrycat

18.01.2022 It’s hard to go past a freshly-made chicken, lettuce and mayo sandwich for lunch....simple and delicious! Thanks Shafay's Mungindi

17.01.2022 It’s almost impossible to resist a plate of fresh, warm homemade scones....with strawberry jam! One of the perks (and dangers) of the job.... #bliss #occupationalhazard

17.01.2022 $32,230 TO RETURN A PLAYGROUND TO KELLYS PLAINS PUBLIC SCHOOL For the first time in almost two years, students at Kellys Plains Public School will soon have playground equipment to climb on and enjoy. Late last week I dropped in on the school to announce a $32,230 State Government grant to install a new nature-based play space and garden, which will replace the equipment removed by the Department of Education, on safety grounds, some time ago.... Despite the all the old playground equipment being removed from the school the Department of Education refused to replace it, instead, leaving that job to the school community. Kellys Plains is a small school with limited funds and despite some outstanding fundraising efforts, there was still a huge amount of money required. I was approached by P&C Association President Stella Single to help out the school community and am delighted with this result, which will ensure all 24 students at Kellys Plains will next year have an exciting, modern playground to keep active and have lots of fun. Stella and all the members of the Kellys Plains Public School P&C Association have done amazing job fundraising the additional money needed to pull this build off. With the playground set to be prominently located right at the front of the school I think it will bring a real sense of pride and joy to the entire community. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/32230-helps-return-a-playg/ NSW Department of Education Sarah Mitchell MLC Armidale Express Armidale Regional Council 2AD John Barilaro

17.01.2022 LOCAL CONTRACTOR HIRED TO START MUNGINDI FIRE CLEAN-UP NEXT WEEK From Monday next week work will begin to clean-up and remediate the site of three businesses in Mungindi’s main street which were destroyed by fire earlier this month. Local contractor Crawford’s has been commissioned to undertake the work, on behalf of the business owners’ insurers.... The hiring of contractors and the commencement of the clean-up marks a very important milestone in Mungindi’s recovery. To take pressure off the business owners, the clean up works has been organised collectively by NSW Public Works and Moree Plains Shire Council. The clean up will be completed at absolutely NO cost to any of the property owners. We all want them and the community firmly focussed on the future and the rebuilding process, not continually looking at the burnt debris of the past. This clean-up has been made difficult by asbestos and waste materials at the site, with a considerable amount of planning needed to ensure the safe removal and disposal of waste. All waste will be transferred for processing at the Moree Waste Management Facility. I cannot wait to see these sites cleared and the rebuilding begin! Mungindi RSL Club Mungindi Progress Association Mungindi Servo Red's Quality Meats Mungindi PJ's Country Wares Moree Champion Radio 2VM Mungindi Races Mungindi SHOW Society ABC New England North West John Barilaro

17.01.2022 Congratulations to the Walcha Rams on their 24-19 New England Rugby first grade grand final win today over the Coffs Harbour Knights. It is Walcha’s first New England Rugby first grade title since 1953!

16.01.2022 WORK BEGINS ON $7.1 MILLION GWYDIR HIGHWAY WASHPOOL UPGRADE Work will begin tomorrow on the notorious Washpool section of the Gwydir Highway, about 17 kilometres east of Moree, to raise and rebuilt the flood-prone stretch of road, keeping communities better connected and freight on the move after heavy rain. I joined Moree Plains Shire Council Councillor Mike Montgomery on Friday to turn the first ceremonial sod of soil on the $7.1 million project which will ensure th...e Gwydir Highway continues to provide a crucial link for tourists, freight operators, and more importantly, local residents accessing various services in town. The Washpool is one of the first sections of the Gwydir Highway to be topped by floodwaters and it’s raising has been a long standing priority for locals and Moree Plains Shire Council. The $7.1 million project to raise and widen this section of the highway, build 1.5-metre-wide shoulders and install large drains alongside the highway will improve flood immunity along this vital route. An important part of the work will be replacing the existing three-box cell culvert drain with a 20-box cell culvert to move more water away from the road. When first announced early last year, the project had a $4.5 million price tag, but once detailed design work was done and flood data analysed, more money was allocated to expand the scope of the works. This is now a much larger project than first envisaged, but it will ensure the road doesn’t go under and wash away in floods and that floodwaters are not diverted onto neighbouring properties. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/work-begins-on-7-1-million/ Transport for NSW Paul Toole MP NSW Roads Moree & District Chamber of Commerce Moree Tyrepower Moree Champion Radio 2VM ABC New England North West PRIME7 News North West Deluxe Cafe Moree NSW Farmers Livestock, Bulk and Rural Carriers Association NSW Nationals John Barilaro

16.01.2022 INVERELL’S OXFORD HOTEL RESTORATION WORKS The 124-year-old Oxford Hotel in Inverell is undergoing it’s largest-ever makeover at the moment. It was an absolute pleasure to drop in and catch up with owners Gary Cracknell and Brett Tomlinson recently and see first-hand their project of love, gutting and restoring this historical gem.... There will be luxurious accomodation upstairs and bar and restaurant space downstairs. The project has already seen the heritage bullnose verandah restored to the front of the building and should be finished sometime next year. Congratulations Gary and Brett! Inverell Times 1188 2NZ Tourism Inverell Inverell Shire Council ABC New England North West PRIME7 News North West John Barilaro

16.01.2022 REAL-TIME BUS TRACKING A NEW REALITY FOR ARMIDALE Public transport customers in Armidale soon won’t have to worry about missing their bus, with the roll out of real-time tracking technology on local coaches. The innovative service will be available on more than 30 local buses and routes operated by Edwards Coaches, Jeffery Buses and WJ & GL Lowery.... Armidale is recognised as a regional leader when it comes to trialing and adopting the latest public transport options. This technology will be installed on coaches across the city’s public transport network, making it easier for customers to get around by allowing them to track the location of their service, its estimated time of arrival and how many seats are available. Imagine how beneficial this will be for older passengers, who will be able to time their arrival at the bus stop exactly with the preferred service, meaning no waiting on a frosty winter’s morning. Parents can even use it to track the progress of their children’s school services so they know exactly when to pick them up. Tracking will be available through the trip planner tool at www.transportnsw.info and on third party public transport apps. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/real-time-bus-tracking-a-n/ Armidale Express 2AD ABC New England North West Transport for NSW Paul Toole MP John Barilaro Armidale Business Chamber

16.01.2022 GUYRA PEONY FESTIVAL The Guyra CBD was bustling yesterday with huge crowds of locals and visitors enjoying the inaugural Guyra Peony Festival. It was great to spend a few hours checking out the markets, stalls, local shops, museums, the famous Poetry Hall of Fame and buy a bunch peony roses.... Huge congratulations to Fiona Smith and everyone from the Guyra Big Ideas Group and the Guyra Chamber of Commerce. What a great initiative and what a great success the day was! Flower Farm Guyra Guyra & District Chamber of Commerce Guyra Gazette Australian Poetry Hall of Fame - Guyra Guyra Lions Club Rotary Club of Guyra Armidale Regional Council ABC New England North West Destination NSW New England High Country

15.01.2022 GLEN INNES MAGPIES SOAR WITH THE OPENING OF THEIR NEW CLUB HOUSE A new era has officially swooped in for Glen Innes Magpies Rugby League Club with the community coming together last weekend to officially open the new two-story clubhouse at Kerry Mead Park. The ribbon was cut on the $471,770 facility, funded through the State Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.... Over a period of 10 months, rugby league fans have been delivered a facility which will allow men, women and children to safely, and more comfortably, get involved in the game they love. I see the new change rooms as the big victory for this project, with high quality men’s and women’s facilities delivered, equipped with showers, amenities and benches. The former amenities block was built around 1962 with common showers and no segregation between men and women, meaning it didn’t meet the standards expected in modern sport, especially with so many young women getting involved in league tag. When league tag returns in 2021 the women will no longer have to share a dressing shed with the men but will have their own change room, making it more comfortable for them to prepare for matches and warm down after games. Congratulations to Glen Innes Severn Council on the way it has managed this important project and acknowledge the various local tradies who contributed to bringing the designs to life. Also, thank you to the Glen Innes Junior and Senior League committees and leadership - it’s only because of you that this facility has been built! MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/glen-innes-magpies-soar-wi/ Glen Innes Minor League Kerry Mead Rugby League Park Glen Innes Examiner ABC New England North West John Barilaro Geoff Lee - MP, Seat of Parramatta NRL - National Rugby League Glen Innes Highlands Glen Innes Services Club

15.01.2022 LEST WE FORGET Remembrance Day is one of the most significant dates on our national calendar. Each year at the 11th hour, on the 11th day, of the 11th month, our nation pauses for a minute’s silence to remember those who have died in wars, conflicts and peace operations - a fitting and solemn tribute to our fallen.... Sadly, with Parliament sitting this week, I am stuck in Sydney and will miss our local services, however, I urge everyone to take a moment today to reflect on the sacrifice of those who have given their lives so that we can live ours. It was wonderful to see the Opera House lit up this morning with poppies, to mark this day. Lest We Forget.

15.01.2022 OPENING OF THE NEW URALLA MEN’S SHED Congratulations to the Uralla Men's Shed Inc. on the recent successful opening of their brand new shed. It was a pleasure to attend and celebrate the progress of this outstanding community organisation! ... Well done to everyone involved - what a great space! Uralla Wordsworth Uralla, New South Wales The Rotary Club of Uralla Uralla Shire Council Uralla Shire Business Chamber 2AD Australian Men's Shed Association

15.01.2022 $320,000 MULTI-YEAR FUNDING BOOST FOR NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL ART MUSEUM From the preservation of the nationally significant Hinton Collection to the staging of unique art exhibitions, NERAM-New England Regional Art Museum is the jewel in the region’s cultural crown and today has secured a $320,000 State Government funding boost to continue its important work. NERAM would receive $80,000 per annum for the next four years to support its day-to-day operations.... This is wonderful and timely news for NERAM and Armidale, especially with the difficult year so far for the arts. Like many local cultural facilities, NERAM closed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, placing considerable financial pressure on the organisation which relies on donations from visiting patrons. This funding gives NERAM the breathing room it needs to deliver its dynamic cultural program that includes some 30 exhibitions, art classes, workshops, Creative Learning and NERAM Nights events. Knowing this money is coming every 12 months will allow NERAM to plan for the long term, helping it target traveling and high-profile exhibitions which will attract crowds and increase its revenue. Armidale Regional Council 2AD Armidale Express ABC New England North West Create NSW Regional Arts NSW John Barilaro

15.01.2022 DROP A LINE THIS ‘GONE FISHING DAY’ The biggest day on the fishing calendar is here! It might look a little different in 2020, but I know tens of thousands of people will be getting outdoors today for Gone Fishing Day, right across the State. Whether you’re a novice, expert or weekend warrior, today is a celebration of the pastime we all love so much, so I encourage everyone to wet a line.... On Friday night we ran a virtual fishing festival ahead of Gone Fishing Day - which has reached an audience of over 50,000 (and counting!) You can check out the replay of the stream on the NSW DPI Fisheries Facebook page - there’s plenty of great ‘how to’ clips from the big names in fishing circles, responsible information, best practice for catch and release, fishing with kids and more. The recreational fishing industry is a critical part of our inland and coastal communities, and contributes $3.4 billion to the NSW economy annually. NSW has among the most picturesque places to wet a line in the world, enjoyed by more than 1 million fishers every year. And for those dedicated anglers, today is the biggest day of the year - so I wish everyone a great day out on the water and good luck landing a catch worth bragging about! Stay safe, and tight lines. NSW Department of Primary Industries Offshore Fishing NSW Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW Al McGlashan NSW Nationals John Barilaro

15.01.2022 FREE PRESCHOOL FOR YOUNGSTERS EXTENDED TO END OF 2021 Great news for families with young children and our local community preschools! The State Government has announced that preschool will be completely free for all three to five-year-olds again next year, thanks to a $120 million investment.... All community and mobile preschools in our region will be eligible for this scheme, which has been running since early this year, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Put simply, parents shouldn’t have to choose between preschool and other essential living costs at a time that is already difficult enough. Since the initial announcement of our COVID-19 response, the free preschool program has saved countless preschools and jobs while keeping our children learning during their most important years. This funding will assist families to get on with working and support them to divert family income into other essentials. A huge thank you to Education Minister Sarah Mitchell MLC for extending this wonderful initiative! Inverell District Family Services - IDFS TG's Child Care and Preschool. Armidale Community Preschool Drummond Park Pre-School TG's Child Care and Preschool. Tingha Preschool Jack and Jill Preschool Northern Roads Activity Van Mobile Preschool 2 Kindimindi Preschool Ashford Preschool IDFS Glen Innes Pre-school Grace Lutheran Preschool Mungindi Community Preschool NSW Department of Education Gwydir Shire Council Moree Plains Shire Council ABC New England North West 1188 2NZ John Barilaro

14.01.2022 STUDENTS BACK ON THE BOARDS AT GLEN INNES WOOL WORKS SHEARING SCHOOL The hum of overhead gear and click of the shears is once again ringing from the Glen Innes Agricultural Research Station, with local High School students participating in the first Wool Works Shearing School since the COVID-19 shutdown. I recently has the pleasure of visiting the school, being run by Regional Development Australia Northern Inland (RDANI), after the State Government provided a... $60,000 grant for the innovative program. With COVID-19 disrupting so much of their education this year, it’s great to see these students from Glen Innes High School and Macintyre High School Inverell back in the shed and learning skills which could provide them with a career for life. Over three days, students participated in a number of workshops, learning from wool industry stalwarts the techniques of shearing and wool handling, safety in the wool shed and about animal health, husbandry and biosecurity. Wool Works is a case study for the type of hands-on education which is required if we wish to equip people with the skills needed for the jobs of the future. As we have seen, COVID-19 international border closures have sent shockwaves through the wool industry, with New Zealand shearers unable to enter the country to fill a shortage of shed workers during the winter/spring shearing. Now is the time to start training our own people to fill that gap. As our State’s Agriculture Minister, I want to thank these young people for their enthusiasm and interest in wanting to be involved in the industry which has made our region so successful. The Wool Works Shearing School is possible through collaboration between RDANI, NSW DPI, Northern Tablelands Local Land Services, Australian Wool Innovation (AWI), TAFE New England, Glen Innes Severn Council, GLENRAC, Prime Super and Heiniger. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/students-back-on-the-board/ NSW Department of Primary Industries Sarah Mitchell MLC NSW Department of Education Australian Wool Innovation NSW Farmers TAFE NSW GLENRAC Prime Super Tafe New England Glen Innes Campus Northern Tablelands Local Land Services Local Land Services NSW Regional Development Australia Northern Inland (RDANI) Glen Innes Examiner The Land ABC New England North West ABC Rural John Barilaro

14.01.2022 URALLA SHIRE HOME BUSINESSES BACK ONLINE AFTER STATE INTERVENTION Small and home-based businesses in the Uralla Shire have scored a major victory after the State Government amended the Uralla Shire Local Environmental Plan (LEP) to provide certainty about where and what they can lawfully trade. Joined by the Uralla Shire Business Chamber yesterday, I was thrilled to announce the Deputy Premier John Barilaro and Planning Minister Rob Stokes had acted quickly in respons...e to concerns expressed by the community and clarified the definition of home business and home industry in the Uralla Shire LEP, to remove any confusion and ensure online retail sales can lawfully occur from homes. The definition changes now make it clear that online retail sales can be transacted from home, through an amendment to the Standard Instrument Local Environment Plan, regardless of where the goods traded are produced. The changes are now in effect and require Uralla Shire Council to drop its ‘unique and controversial’ interpretation of the LEP and fall into line with the rest of the State. This will provide certainty but also relief to many local home business and the community, which recently turned out in droves to express its concern and opposition to the stance council planning staff had taken. After such an unpredictable and tumultuous year it’s vital we provide certainty to communities who are doing it tough and I’m thrilled we could make this happen just in time for Christmas. A big thank you to the Uralla Shire Business Chamber for championing this issue, on behalf of the community - another demonstration that people power still matters and can achieve results! Uralla Wordsworth 2AD Armidale Express ABC New England North West PRIME7 News North West Thunder Graphics

14.01.2022 AG-TECH FIELD DAY SHOWCASES REGION’S BEST It was great to spend some time and catch up with some of the exhibitors at the UNE SMART Region Incubator (SRI) AgTech Field Day at Yarrowyck last Friday. The field day showcased some of the outstanding agtech innovations being developed in our region, solving problems for farming businesses and the State’s agricultural sector.... The talent we have in our region is incredible and I look forward to seeing some of these business and concepts grow. NSW Department of Primary Industries University of New England, AU Armidale Express Armidale Regional Council ABC Rural ABC New England North West The Land John Barilaro NSW Nationals

13.01.2022 CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON WORLD’S LONGEST WILD DOG FENCE For those living in the state’s west, the scourge of wild dogs is a bigger issue than any drought, but help is on the way. Construction has now started on the world’s longest exclusion fence to keep them off our land.... On Monday I joined Deputy Premier John Barilaro near Hungerford on the NSW/QLD border to turn the first sod of soil on the $37.5 million 742-kilometre extension of the NSW Border Wild Dog Fence, to mark an important milestone for farmers in our state. Wild dogs are a plague on primary producers. They come in from Queensland and South Australia and cause more than $22 million in damage and lost production in NSW every year. But soon our properties will be protected from these pests and predators by a fence fortress. This extension will add an extra 420km from Hungerford east to Mungindi and 322km along the SA border right down to the Murray River, keeping wild dogs out of NSW and off our farms. The NSW Border Wild Dog Fence was a key election commitment from the NSW Government and it’s bloody brilliant to deliver this promise, because I know what a difference it makes for our hardworking farmers. Western landholders say goodbye to the problem of wild dogs, because your land can now be even more productive. Soil Conservation Service NSW Farmers Invasive Species Council The Land ABC Western Plains ABC Broken Hill ABC Rural Outback Radio 2WEB NSW Department of Primary Industries Local Land Services NSW Bourke Shire Council Hungerford, Queensland NSW Nationals Bourke Steel & Hire Western Local Land Services ABC New England North West Sam Farraway MLC National Farmers' Federation Mark Furner MP for Ferny Grove

12.01.2022 $316,903 MOREE SHOWGROUND FACILITIES UPGRADE COMPLETE Sturdy, safe and sustainable are the words now being used to describe the Moree Showground, following the completion of a new industrial kitchen, roof-top solar system and internal bitumen road sealing, all funded by a $316,903 State Government grant. I recently inspected the completed works and said in the space of three months the Showground Stimulus Program had cleared a backlog of projects which would have ordi...narily taken Moree Showground Trust years to complete. The Moree Showground has never looked better, nor had better quality facilities. This funding has achieved exactly what it was intended, it’s boosted the showground’s functionality and provided work for around a dozen different local tradies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Immediately noticeable as you drive through the front gate is the extensive, internal bitumen road works which have taken place, suppressing the amount of dust raised by vehicles, in particular around the campsites. Those campers choosing to stay overnight at the grounds will also benefit from the reconfigured showers, which are now safer with better drainage and extended Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) system, which will keep an eye on would-be-thieves and vandals. The grandstand hall’s new industrial kitchen with stainless steel bench tops and cupboards, dishwasher, cooktops and exhaust fan has brought the Showground’s food preparation area up to health standards and made it the perfect space to host community events. Finally, a new solar system installed across the Moree Boxing Academy shed and main amenities block is generating electricity for buildings across the facility. This addition will save the Trust $24,000 each year and will offset the cost of running the additional CCTV cameras. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/316903-moree-showground-fa/ Moree Showground Moree Show Society Inc. Radio 2VM Moree Champion My Moree Moree Plains Shire Council Moree & District Chamber of Commerce Melinda Pavey John Barilaro ABC New England North West Royal Agricultural Society of NSW Agricultural Societies Council of NSW Ltd NSW Farmers

12.01.2022 NSW FIRST STATE TO IMPLEMENT NATIONAL AG WORKERS’ CODE Our state’s farmers have received a massive boost ahead of a bumper harvest, with the NSW Government becoming the first jurisdiction to write the new Agricultural Workers’ Code into its public health orders. This will allow the free movement of agricultural workers across state borders, so that our almost $16 billion primary industries sector can make the most of the best seasonal conditions we’ve seen in ma...ny years. Yesterday I joined Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Acting Deputy Premier Paul Toole MP to make this important announcement. If we didn’t have this Code, it’s estimated there would be turndown in agricultural production of $2.3 billion over the next 12 months. This means that primary producers can not only continue to feed and clothe the nation, but be the driving force behind the economic recovery from COVID-19. Thank you to my Ministerial colleagues in South Australia and Victoria (Jaclyn Symes) for signing on, and hopefully Queensland will soon pull its head out of the sand and follow suit. COVID safety is still a top priority, so agricultural workers travelling between NSW and Victoria will need a permit and relevant identification, and will be required to use PPE as appropriate. This is a big win for our farmers, but more always needs to be done, and I will continue to fight for them. NSW Farmers National Farmers' Federation ABC Rural ABC New England North West The Land PRIME7 News North West NSW Department of Primary Industries Local Land Services NSW John Barilaro NSW Nationals

12.01.2022 $102,000 FOR NEW WALKING AND CYCLING PATHS AROUND INVERELL Inverell Shire Council will crack on with planning for additional bike and walking paths in Inverell, thanks to a $102,000 investment by the State Government. The three projects funded in Inverell include:... A shared path along the northern side of Gwydir Highway, from the corner of Brae Street to Lions Park, Old Bundarra Road, Inverell; A shared path along the Macintyre River from Gwydir Highway to May Street Lookout, providing a safe passage for pedestrians and cyclists; and A shared cycleway from the corner of Lawrence and Henderson streets to the corner of Granville and Vivian streets, Inverell. The project adjoins parkland and an aged care facility. I am delighted Inverell will benefit from this funding injection, with three projects earmarked to improve and extend the existing network of walking and cycling paths through the community. I congratulate Inverell Shire Council on being so proactive in addressing gaps in its existing footpath and cycleway networks and valuing the importance of this infrastructure for the health and wellbeing of the local community. Inverell Times 1188 2NZ Tourism Inverell Inverell Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inverell, New South Wales ABC New England North West Paul Toole MP Transport for NSW John Barilaro

11.01.2022 BELATED $15,000 CHRISTMAS PRESENT FOR GLEN INNES PRESCHOOL Christmas arrived a bit later this year for Glen Innes Pre-school, with a delivery of a $15,000 present from the State Government last week to upgrade its outdoor learning environment. As a result of students making it into Santa’s good books last year, the preschool is receiving an exciting new play area.... Over the past two years, Glen Innes Preschool has undergone both an internal and external transformation, with thousands of dollars being spent to modernise the preschool. One change saw the facility’s old, stationary play equipment relocated to the Deepwater Outreach preschool, leaving space for new equipment. This Quality Learning Environment (QLE) grant will fill that area, installing a natural play space with plenty of hands on elements and shade for sun protection. Including structures for climbing and promoting balance, the equipment will help encourage children to engage in open-ended play. Based on its current enrolment, 110 children, between the ages of 3 and 5, will have the opportunity to play on and enjoy the new equipment. Congratulations to Director Robyn Cartwright and her team for the work they have already done improving the functionality of the facility, so that the families of Glen Innes can have the best possible early education experience. NSW Department of Education Sarah Mitchell MLC Glen Innes Examiner 2CBD Community Radio, Cool FM Glen Innes Highlands Glen Innes Highlands Visitor Association John Barilaro ABC New England North West

11.01.2022 MUST WATCH - EYE IN THE SKY SAVES SURFER An eagle-eyed drone has ensured a safe escape for a surfer on the State’s north coast, after it captured the moment a shark swam within metres of a former pro. Tragedy was avoided on Sharpes Beach near Ballina this week when former World Championship Tour surfer Matt Wilkinson was warned of the underwater danger over the loudspeaker thanks to the drone operated by Surf Life Saving NSW on behalf of the State Government.... The beach was evacuated and closed, and everyone Matt included got out safely. This technology is quite literally a life-saver. In July this year I announced our beaches would be home to the world’s largest fleet of shark-spotting drones as part of our $8 million strategy to protect beachgoers. The State Government takes a holistic approach to shark mitigation, but by deploying these drones, we have ensured that we are at the forefront of using the latest technology. Swimmer safety is our priority, and while it is undoubtedly a risk every time we enter the shark’s domain, these protections mean we can have a safe Summer. NSW Department of Primary Industries NSW DPI Fisheries Surf Life Saving NSW Ballina Shire Council NSW Nationals

11.01.2022 $1.1 MILLION SECURES A GRANDSTAND FINISH FOR MOREE RACE CLUB The Moree Racecourse central grandstand will be reinstated for public use, thanks to $1.1 million in stimulus funding from the State Government to address structural issues with the building. This is brilliant news for the Moree Race Club, which has for years now wanted to undertake a large-scale revamp of the 50-year-old racecourse grandstand.... Horse racing has had a long and distinguished history in the region with the first Moree Cup held in 1881 and this $1.1 million stimulus funding will help continue that legacy. The current grandstand at Moree Racecourse has been restricted for some time, due to concrete cancer weakening the structure making it unsafe for large numbers of spectators. Preliminary engineering assessments have been conducted on the grandstand and more detailed assessments will now be undertaken with the use of the first tranche of this funding. These assessments will determine what repair work will be needed to rectify the situation or if a replacement grandstand would be more cost effective. Moree Racecourse is a significant drawcard and focal point for the town and also other communities in the wider region that hold picnic race days at the course. This investment to restore a key piece of recreational infrastructure will provide a boost for the local turf club and the many residents who enjoy a great view of the action during a day at the races. Moree Race Club President Rob Mather and his committee have worked hard for many years now improving the trackside facilities and deserve congratulations. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/1-1-million-secures-a-gran/ Moree Picnic Races Moree Champion Radio 2VM Tourism Moree Inc Moree & District Chamber of Commerce Racing NSW Kevin Anderson MP Melinda Pavey John Barilaro ABC New England North West PRIME7 News North West Moree Tyrepower Assef's Pty. Ltd.

11.01.2022 EIGHT HIDDEN TREASURES CELEBRATED ON INTERNATIONAL DAY OF RURAL WOMEN The outstanding contributions that women make to their local rural communities has been recognised today, the International Day of Rural Women, with the unveiling of the 2020 NSW Hidden Treasures Honour Roll. In a year of unforeseen challenges, women volunteers in rural areas had selflessly and tirelessly donated their time and today was an opportunity to celebrate that.... We never could have anticipated what 2020 would bring, but today we are recognising a number of women who have gone above and beyond to the benefit of their communities. The Hidden Treasures Honour Roll is an annual initiative from the NSW Government’s Rural Women’s Network, that tells the stories of women volunteers, and promotes their valuable role to local charities, organisations and businesses. Volunteers are heroes in the bush, and the celebration of these nominees is an important part of ensuring their tireless work is respected. This year 104 women have been recognised by their communities in this important publication, bringing our total nominees to more than 1,000 since the Honour Roll first launched in 2010. In the Northern Tablelands, eight local women have been recognised and added to the Honour Roll. They are Karen Backus (North Star), Jayde Gardiner (North Star), Lyn Hetherington (Glen Innes), Kama Kamphuis (North Star), Gwen Smith (North Star), Jessica Wells (North Star), Pamela Wilkinson (North Star) and Elka Devney (Moree). I have seen first-hand the way these eight women support one another and give their own time so often to improve the lives of others in their local communities. It’s no exaggeration to say that without these eight women, our rural communities would be much poorer. These awards are a great way of acknowledging these women for their generosity and selflessness in volunteering and helping our communities recover and thrive. For more information on the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll please visit the DPI website www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/rwn Rural Women's Network NSW Department of Primary Industries ABC New England North West PRIME7 News North West The Land ABC Rural Bronnie Taylor MLC John Barilaro Moree Champion Moree Secondary College

09.01.2022 ROCKVALE ROAD BITUMEN SEALING UNDERWAY I was very pleased last week to work finally get underway on sealing another 1.4km section of Rockvale Road, between Armidale and Guyra Road. This important freight link has been a burr under the saddle of many motorists for years now and this latest work, supported by the State Government, will leave just 7.5km unsealed.... I’ll continue to work with Armidale Regional Council to help secure funds to finish the job and ensure there is no more gravel on this road. Guyra Gazette 2AD Armidale Express Paul Toole MP NSW Roads Transport for NSW John Barilaro ABC New England North West PRIME7 News North West NSW Farmers Livestock, Bulk and Rural Carriers Association Guyra & District Chamber of Commerce

09.01.2022 VICTORY! INVERELL & GWYDIR SHIRES ALSO INCLUDED IN QUEENSLAND BORDER BUBBLE I have just had formal confirmation that the Inverell and Gwydir Shires will be included, in their entirety, within the Queensland Government’s COVID-19 border bubble, from 1am Thursday, 1 October. This is the breakthrough our communities have been calling for since the ridiculous, postcode based, border zone was implemented in early August.... After six weeks of pain, frustration and heartache finally the Queensland Government has made a rational decision and created a travel zone based on local government areas, instead of postcodes. This decision late today means Inverell and Gwydir Shires will join Moree Plains, Glen Innes and Tenterfield LGAs in the bubble, which is brilliant news. More information, as well as travel passes, can be found here: https://www.qld.gov.au//bord/border-restrictions-1-october Inverell Shire Council Gwydir Shire Council Inverell Times ABC New England North West The Gwydir News Inverell Chamber of Commerce & Industry Warialda District Chamber

09.01.2022 NEW WARIALDA SHOWGROUND STABLES CONSTRUCTION PASSES HALF-WAY MARK By the middle of next month Warialda Showground will have a brand new set of steel horse stables, as part of a $226,489 COVID-19 Showground Stimulus project. I recently dropped in to check out progress and the stalls that are finished have already greatly improved the look and functionality of the showground.... The demolition of the old ironbark stables only took a few days and showed just how small and unsafe the old structures were. Local builder Barry Jackson and his team have really hooked in on this project with around 75 of the nearly 100 individual 3m by 3m stalls now complete. What’s immediately noticeable is how much room each horse will have in the new building. Every stall has its own large gate and is protected with a corrugated iron roof. Work is ticking away on the six stallion’s boxes, animal drug testing stall and much needed, additional storage space. The steel posts are now in for the final run of stables closest to the Gwydir Highway, with the roof and infill scheduled to be installed over the coming weeks. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/new-warialda-showground-st/ Warialda Show Warialda, New South Wales Warialda, Place of Wild Honey Gwydir Shire Council The Gwydir News ABC New England North West Melinda Pavey John Barilaro Warialda Campdraft Warialda District Chamber

09.01.2022 RECRUITMENT OF REGION’S FIRST POLICE DOG UNIT IMMINENT I’m thrilled to announce that the recruitment and placement of our region’s first-ever permanent NSW Police Dog Unit is imminent. This week in Parliament I met with Police Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys with a view to having the deployment fast-tracked.... The meeting was incredibly constructive and positive with assurances the recruitment of the Police Dog Handler and trained dogs would likely occur within weeks. This is incredibly positive news for the local community and our hard-working and dedicated men and women in blue right across the region. I’ll keep the pressure on to ensure we have a result and a public announcement as soon as the ink is dry on the recruitment paperwork and we have an officer lined up with a start date in the region. In 2018, when the designs were being drawn up for the new Inverell Police Station I expressly asked for provisions to be made for a Police Dog Unit, which would support officers across this region. The New England Police District has never had a dedicated dog unit based here and it’s about time we had one to boost policing in the region and the capability of our men and women in blue to keep the community safe. I believe the addition of a police dog, based at Inverell, would be invaluable in acting as a deterrent for crimes like theft and break-and-enter, while also aiding police with searching for missing people and reducing drug and firearm related crimes. While the unit will be based in Inverell, it will be an extraordinary resource, which would be available for police in every community across the Northern Tablelands from Mungindi to Ebor and up to Tenterfield. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/recruitment-of-regions-fir/ NSW Police Force Police Dog Unit - NSW Police Force New England Police District ABC New England North West PRIME7 News North West John Barilaro Inverell Times Radio 2VM 1188 2NZ Inverell Shire Council Moree Plains Shire Council Glen Innes Examiner Moree Champion Armidale Regional Council Guyra Gazette Armidale Express 2AD Uralla Shire Council Uralla Wordsworth

08.01.2022 FUNDING SPLASH TO HELP UPPER HORTON SPORTS CLUB It was great to get out to Upper Horton late last week, after some really good rain, to deliver some positive news for the Upper Horton Sports Club Ltd. The club has secured two grants of almost $27,000 from the State Government to purchase and install a new electric pizza oven - for those popular Sunday evening pizza nights - and a rooftop solar system to help reduce the running costs of the club.... Congratulations to Lindsay Hogan, Helen Graves and all the amazing volunteer commitment members, who work so damn hard to keep this nerve centre of the district thriving, and for securing these two important grants. I cannot wait to come back and try the pizzas fresh out of the new oven!! Upper Horton, New South Wales, Australia Upper Horton NSW Gwydir Shire Council The Gwydir News ABC New England North West John Barilaro

08.01.2022 $20 MILLION READY TO BE ‘REELED IN’ BY RECREATIONAL FISHERS I’m urging all the region’s fishings clubs, local councils and community organisations to throw in a line for almost $20 million in State Government funding, through Recreational Fishing Trust. The funding is available to help support projects in the area to improve and promote recreational fishing, such as new facilities (scaling tables, boat ramps, floating pontoons etc), fish restocking, improving fish habit...at and educational programs, like learn to fish days. The program is open to all in the recreational fishing industry, including clubs and organisations, community groups and councils. If you’ve got an idea that will support fish habitats and recreational fishing in our region then please get your application in. More than one million anglers take to our waterways annually, so it’s important we give them the tools to do what they love. Funding guidelines and application forms are available at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au Grant ideas can also be discussed by contacting DPI Fisheries on (02) 4916 3835 or by emailing [email protected] Applications are now open and close on 30 October 2020. NSW Department of Primary Industries Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW Land Based Fishing NSW Recreational Fishing Australia John Barilaro NSW Nationals Moree Plains Shire Council Gwydir Shire Council Inverell Shire Council Armidale Regional Council Uralla Shire Council Glen Innes Severn Council Tourism Inverell Tourism Moree Inc

07.01.2022 $500,000 REFURBISHMENT FOR URALLA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE The gateway to the New England is about to shine with a half-a-million-dollar refurbishment of the Uralla Visitor Information Centre (VIC) planned to entice potential tourists to stop, stay and spend in the town. Recently I joined Uralla Shire Council Mayor Mick Pearce and General Manager Kate Jessep to announce $400,000 in State Government funding for the project which will increase the visitor cent...er’s visibility and provide the ‘wow’ factor needed to entice visitors to stop off in Uralla. The remaining $100,000 is funded by the Drought Communities Extension Program. Uralla is the first town travelers from the south arrive in after climbing the Moonbi Range, and as such really is the ‘Southern Gateway to the New England. The Uralla VIC plays an important role in promoting sites and activities across the entire New England, however, due to its current configuration there is limited space for local produce and tourism displays. That will be rectified with the removal of a number of walls to create a more open and inviting space for visitors and staff. To provide a relaxing place to stop and have a cuppa, a garden area is proposed at the rear at the VIC in the existing grassed area in front of the library. The garden will have a small waterfall and native ground covers, shrubs and small trees planted throughout, with plans to include a ‘bush tucker’ area with interpretive signage providing information on traditional food sources utilised by the local Aboriginal community. Benches will be constructed from old bridge timbers stored in the council depot and the existing disabled carpark is upgraded to comply with the standard. This is an exciting development, which I think will greatly increase the number of people stopping into the visitor centre and choosing to stay and make the most of Uralla’s hospitality. Uralla Shire Business Chamber 2AD Uralla Wordsworth Armidale Express The Top Pub Uralla Melrose Uralla John Barilaro Stuart Ayres

07.01.2022 PINKETT HALL TO BE RESTORED AHEAD OF 100th BIRTHDAY Next year, the famed Pinkett Hall, located at the recreation ground, will turn 100 and to help celebrate the occasion, I was delighted to help the hall committee secure a $28,000 grant from the State Government. President Trevor Miller and his dedicated band of long-serving volunteers will use the funding to replace the old roof, upgrade the ageing electrical wiring and re-clad the weathered external walls of the bui...lding. The official opening of the Pinkett Memorial Hall was described in the Glen Innes Examiner, in February 1921, as the largest gathering Pinkett had ever seen. While there have been plenty of gatherings since then, that statement will definitely be challenged in 2021, when locals celebrate the building as it blows out the candles on 100 years. Just as it was almost 100 years ago, Pinkett Hall remains a popular, central meeting place for residents and following these works I expect it will continue to do so for many years to come. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/100-year-old-pinkett-hall-/ Glen Innes Examiner ABC New England North West The Land ABC Rural PRIME7 News North West John Barilaro

06.01.2022 HANDING OVER THE KEYS TO NEW WARIALDA YOUTH HUB BUILDING With the shake of a hand and the payment of a single $1 coin, 47 Hope Street in the Warialda CBD has a new owner and will become the home of the town’s new youth centre. I was in Warialda late last week to officially hand over the keys of the former State Government Soil Conservation Service building to its new owner, Gwydir Shire Council.... I reckon it’s the best property deal council and the community will ever sign off on. From an empty shop front in the Warialda CBD to a place of hopes and dreams, 47 Hope Street is about to become a one-stop-shop for youth empowerment in the Gwydir Shire. Through the State Government’s Community Use Policy, the former Soil Conservation Service office building has been purchased for $1, meaning for the next 15 years it must be used for public benefit. Centrally located in Warialda’s CBD, the Youth Hub will see the Gwydir Learning Region, Warialda High School, Bingara Central School and Gwydir Youth Services come together to provide a space for young people to meet up and undertake mentoring and education programs. One of the biggest issues facing towns like Warialda is how to encourage young people to stay, live and work after they finish school. Council wants the Youth Hub to be a place where young people can advocate for employment and social opportunities that will make their region more liveable. The space will also be used to host art exhibitions and events, highlighting the creative spirit of the community. Warialda, Place of Wild Honey Warialda Public School Warialda Golf and Bowling Club Warialda District Chamber The Gwydir News John Barilaro Melinda Pavey Bronnie Taylor MLC Radio 2VM ABC New England North West

06.01.2022 It was great to catch up with NSW Farmers CEO Pete Arkle yesterday after a press conference with Premier Gladys Berejiklian Acting Deputy Premier Paul Toole MP and Planning Minister Rob Stokes about securing a beautiful balance for the continued management of agricultural land, farmers’ right to farm and the protection of our State’s koalas for future generations....

05.01.2022 TRIPLE BOOST TO THE BLUE LINE FOR MOREE & INVERELL Our region’s police force will receive another boost in strength this week, when three new probationary Constables, who graduated from the Goulburn Police Academy on Friday, join the ranks of the New England Police District in Moree and Inverell. Two officers will report to Inverell Police Station tomorrow and one officer will boost numbers at the Moree Police Station on Tuesday.... The arrival of the three new recruits takes the number of new police officers the Northern Tablelands has secured since the beginning of last year to 48. I am always thrilled to be able to welcome new police officers to the New England Police District and I firstly congratulate them on their graduation. They will of course, be warmly welcomed into the local police ‘family’ and I have no doubt our communities in Moree and Inverell, will similarly roll out the welcome mat. We’re stepping up the numbers of police in this region and importantly, the visibility of police, to help prevent crime, not just apprehend those who perpetrate it. To secure 48 new officers in less than two years is an enormous boost to the police ranks in our region and has contributed to falling crime rates across many communities. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/triple-boost-to-the-blue-l/ NSW Police Force NSW Police Force Academy Moree Champion Radio 2VM Moree Plains Shire Council Inverell Shire Council Inverell Times 1188 2NZ ABC New England North West

05.01.2022 $45,000 ‘SHEDS LIGHT’ ON URALLA COMMUNITY CENTRE IMPROVEMENTS A lick of paint and new solar lighting will brighten up the Uralla Community Centre with a face-lift, thanks to a $45,000 grant from the State Government’s Drought Stimulus Program. The Uralla Community Centre is the home of all things inclusive in the Uralla Shire, providing a base for Tablelands Community Support (TSC), Ascent Group and the local Aboriginal Elders Group.... The addition of solar lighting will make the carpark safer at night for staff, in particular during winter. This lighting will provide the added benefit of deterring would be thieves and vandals from attempting to break into the all-important TSC vehicles, which are parked there overnight. The interior of the centre will be completely re-painted. Work is expected to start in the first quarter of next year. MORE: https://www.adammarshall.com.au/45000-sheds-light-on-urall/ Uralla Shire Council The Ascent Group Uralla Wordsworth Uralla, New South Wales John Barilaro Our Regional NSW 2AD Armidale Express

04.01.2022 RSPCA & POLICE RAID ON COPETON DAM ANIMAL BREEDING FACILITY Yesterday I was formally advised of a raid conducted by the RSPCA NSW and NSW Police Force on a property in the Copeton Dam area, regarding possible breaches of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (NSW). The property, which contains a commercial animal breeding facility, has been the subject of monitoring by authorities for some time.... I strongly condemn any acts of cruelty perpetrated against animals, whether they be pets, native animals or livestock. Any person in breach of our State’s robust animal welfare laws should have the book thrown at them and will be prosecuted. The fact that a potential rogue operator has been the subject of investigation and a raid today is evidence that the NSW authorities take these matters incredibly seriously and have the legislative tools they need to take decisive action. The issue of cruelty towards companion animals who may be suffering due to illegal breeding practices is one that is close to my heart. One of my first actions in Parliament as the Member for the Northern Tablelands was to Chair the Joint Select Committee on Companion Animals Breeding Practices. This was instrumental in bringing in new protections for breeding animals and tracing systems for puppies to weed out any illegal breeding. I urge anyone who is aware of illegal activity in relation to the commercial breeding of animals to report them immediately to the appropriate authorities for investigation. As the raid yesterday on the property is the subject of an ongoing investigation it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the specifics of the case at this point in time, as it could potentially jeopardise future prosecution action. I will have more to say on this matter in due course. New England Police District Inverell Shire Council Gwydir Shire Council NSW Department of Primary Industries John Barilaro ABC New England North West PRIME7 News North West The Gwydir News Inverell Times 1188 2NZ

04.01.2022 After a warm few days, it was wonderful to see a few storms bring some welcome relief to some parts of our region this afternoon

04.01.2022 OPENING OF NEW COMMUNITY COLLEGE NORTHERN INLAND MOREE CAMPUS It was an enormous pleasure to perform the honours last Friday and officially open the new Moree campus of the Community College Northern Inland. After a long history in various premises around Moree, and thanks to a $71,875 grant from the State Government, the Community College decided to purchase and fit out its own building, at 53 Greenbah Road, Moree.... The property has been converted into an amazing learning space for local business, visiting specialist training organisations and the Colleges' own work skills and self-development programs. There’s also plenty of room for future expansion. Congratulations to Moree Campus Co-ordinator Catherine Davis and her amazing team on this achievement! This is another big positive for the Moree district. Moree - Community College Northern Inland Inc - RTO 90027 Moree Champion Radio 2VM Moree & District Chamber of Commerce Moree Plains Shire Council ABC New England North West Geoff Lee - MP, Seat of Parramatta John Barilaro

03.01.2022 Go #Walcha Rams! New England Rugby grand final day

02.01.2022 BINGARA PONY CLUB CAMP & FUNDING FOR SHOWGROUND GRANDSTAND UPGRADE It was wonderful to drop in and catch some of the action at the Bingara Pony Club this week. 25 local youngsters are having a blast learning from instructors and vying for places at next week’s jamboree in Moree.... While at the showground, I was able to give the club and Gwydir Shire Council the good news that a grant of more than $85,000 has been secured from the State Government to upgrade the main grandstand, which is heavily used for all events at the ground, throughout the year. Bingara Showground Bingara Show Society Bingara Jockey Club Bingara Newsagency The Gwydir News ABC New England North West Melinda Pavey John Barilaro Bingara, New South Wales

02.01.2022 UNLEASHING THE TOUGHEST PENALTIES FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY IN AUSTRALIA Cowards caught committing acts of cruelty to animals will now face the harshest penalties in Australia, with the State Government set to dramatically ramp up punishments for animal cruelty offenders. I was pleased to stand beside the RSPCA NSW yesterday to announce that I would introduce legislation this week into State Parliament to increase by a massive eight-fold, current penalties under the Preven...tion of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTA). Cruelty towards animals is one of the lowest acts and for too long our penalties here in NSW have lagged behind where they need to be. The new set of measures I’m taking to Parliament dramatically increase both financial penalties and gaol time and introduce new offences to stop people ever being allowed to own, care or breed animals anywhere in NSW. Most people treat animals with the care they deserve, but unfortunately we know there are people out there doing the wrong thing committing heinous acts against animals. These changes would enable our enforcement agencies to throw the book at those caught perpetrating cruelty offences. Courts will have more power to compel people to care for, or surrender their animals, as well as prevent them acquiring more animals while they face charges. In some cases, these punishments are more than double that in most other states, so when these laws are passed, NSW will have the toughest animal cruelty penalties in Australia. Everyone from those neglecting their pet in the backyard to covert puppy factory grubs should be on notice from today; do the right thing or face the consequences. Just last month we set up a dedicated unit with the RSPCA to crack down on puppy factories. Now, when they are found, the full force of the law will be felt if they are not complying with both our breeding codes and animal cruelty laws. The proposed increases would introduce the following penalties: Cruelty increased from $5,500 fine (current) to $44,000 and/or 12 months’ imprisonment for individuals and $220,000 for corporations for each individual act of cruelty; Aggravated Cruelty increased from $22,000 fine (current) to $110,000 and/or 2 years’ imprisonment for individuals and $550,000 for corporations for each individual act; Fail to Provide Food & Shelter Increased from $5,500 fine (current) to $16,500 and/or six months’ imprisonment for individuals and $82,500 for corporations for each individual act. Animal Welfare League NSW NSW Police Force NSW Department of Primary Industries Local Land Services NSW John Barilaro The Land ABC New England North West ABC Rural

02.01.2022 MACINTYRE HIGH SCHOOL PRESENTATION NIGHT It was an enormous pleasure to attend tonight’s COVID-safe 2020 Macintyre High School presentation night. It’s been very tough time for students and teachers with closures, learning from home and very little, if any, extra-curricular activities for most of the year.... Congratulations to all the award recipients, especially Year 12, who have had to work through so much adversity to achieve their HSCs! NSW Department of Education Sarah Mitchell MLC Inverell Times Inverell Shire Council 1188 2NZ ABC New England North West John Barilaro