Published on 28 October 2025
28 October 2025 Upper Hunter Shire Council met on Monday, 27 October 2025, to consider several key matters relating to the future of aged care in Merriwa, community consultation for the Scone Cup, financial reporting, sustainability initiatives, local infrastructure, and water funding priorities. Future direction for Gummun Place Hostel The transition of Gummun Place Hostel in Merriwa to a new operating model has been formally endorsed, marking a significant step in securing the facility’s long-term sustainability. Under the adopted direction, Gummun Place will transition from a high-care residential aged care facility to a lower-care model, operating as a licensed assisted boarding house supported by home care packages. This approach follows extensive community consultation and reflects broad consensus that the existing model is no longer viable. Work will now continue to identify a suitable home care partner through an Expression of Interest process, ensuring residents continue to access locally based accommodation and support within Merriwa. Scone Cup half-day public holiday open for feedback A proposal to declare a half-day public holiday for the Scone Cup in 2026 and 2027 will proceed to public consultation. Residents and businesses will have the opportunity to provide feedback before a final determination is made. Annual Financial Statements for 2024–25 adopted The Annual Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2025 were formally signed, completing statutory reporting requirements for the financial year and confirming Council’s financial position as satisfactory. New members join Scone Sustainable Community Group Membership of the Scone Sustainable Community Group Subcommittee has been updated, with new members appointed to support local sustainability and environmental initiatives across the Shire. Electric vehicle charging station for Murrurundi Approval was granted for a proposed electric vehicle charging station at the Wilson Memorial Oval car park on Mayne Street, Murrurundi. The project supports greater access to EV infrastructure in rural areas and aligns with the Shire’s sustainability goals. Water and sewer funding update An update on water and sewer funding highlighted ongoing works and investment in key infrastructure across the Upper Hunter. The report noted continuing advocacy for funding to ensure long-term water security and improved service reliability.
For more details on other matters discussed, please refer to the meeting agenda, or head to our YouTube channel to watch the meeting.