Published on 25 November 2025
25 November, 2025 Upper Hunter Shire Council met on Monday night to consider a range of matters recognising community service, responding to regional infrastructure planning, reviewing governance documents, and receiving key annual updates. Recognising 20 years of service Two long-serving staff members were acknowledged for reaching significant milestones in their careers with Council. Jamie Catzikiris and Douglas Towns were formally recognised for 20 years of service, reflecting an ongoing commitment to supporting the Upper Hunter community through their roles. Action relating to the New England REZ revised transmission line Council considered updated information relating to the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) revised transmission line. The agenda item outlined proposed actions in response to the revised study corridor, ensuring that local concerns, land use impacts and community feedback continue to be reflected in Council’s advocacy. Council will now prepare a letter to EnergyCo and the NSW Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe MP, highlighting the inadequate community consultation undertaken by EnergyCo and recommending that EnergyCo thoroughly investigate the potential use of the existing transmission line corridors, as this would provide a more sustainable solution. Annual presentation from Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre Lee Watts from the Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre delivered their annual presentation, updating Council on programs, community support services and recent achievements. The presentation is a standing item each year and provides insight into the organisation’s role in supporting residents across the district. Draft Code of Meeting Practice A report on the Code of Meeting Practice was presented in September, outlining required updates to ensure alignment with current legislation and model templates issued by the NSW Office of Local Government. The document sets the rules for how meetings are conducted and provides consistent standards around transparency, participation and meeting procedure. Council has decided to formally adopt its code of meeting practice attached to the Council meeting agenda. Australia Day Award nominations Council received a report on Australia Day Award nominations, outlining the process and preparations for recognising outstanding community contributions ahead of the 2026 celebrations. Council moved into closed council to consider the nominations. 2024 to 2025 Annual Report published Council noted the final published 2024 to 2025 Annual Report, prepared in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 and the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework. The report outlines progress against the Community Strategic Plan 2035, the Delivery Program 2022 to 2026, and the Operational Plan 2024 to 2025. It is now available on Council’s website, providing transparency and a detailed account of the organisation’s performance, projects and services over the past financial year. New England REZ Transmission Line Study Corridor The revised New England REZ Transmission Line Study Corridor was acknowledged. Council will review the submissions received from the community regarding the corridor and will continue to make representations to EnergyCo and advocate for the community’s concerns. The update forms part of ongoing regional planning processes and supports Council’s advocacy to ensure local communities are considered during route planning and assessment stages. Appreciation Messages: A number of appreciation messages received from customers and community members during the last quarter were noted. Scone Regional Livestock Expression of Interest Council resolved to award a licence to the Scone Associated agents for 2 years to operate sales at the Scone Regional Livestock Centre For more details on other matters discussed, please refer to the meeting agenda available on the Upper Hunter Shire Council website, or head to our YouTube channel to watch the meeting.