Published on 01 April 2026
Upper Hunter Shire Council met on Monday 30 March 2026 to consider a range of matters relating to community services, infrastructure, planning and governance. Recognition of staff service Sonia Broadbent was recognised for 20 years of service and Jason Chapple for 30 years, acknowledging their long-standing contribution to Council operations and the Upper Hunter community. Environmental and Community Services Committee Council adopted the minutes of the Environmental and Community Services Committee, including support for a development application for dwelling alterations at Oxford Road, Scone, and the re-establishment of alcohol-free zones across Scone, Aberdeen, Merriwa and Murrurundi from 15 April 2026 to 15 April 2030. Further details are available in the Environmental and Community Services Committee agenda on Council’s website: https://www.upperhunter.nsw.gov.au/Council/Council-and-Committee-Meetings/Council-and-Committee-Meetings/ECS-10-March-2026 Infrastructure Services Committee The minutes of the Infrastructure Services Committee were adopted, with reports received on water and sewer operations, works delivery, and updates on key projects including the Cassilis Sewerage Scheme and Cassilis Footbridge. Further details are available in the Infrastructure Services Committee agenda on Council’s website: https://www.upperhunter.nsw.gov.au/Council/Council-and-Committee-Meetings/Council-and-Committee-Meetings/ISC-10-March-2026 Corporate Services Committee and financial reporting Council adopted the Corporate Services Committee minutes, noted financial and investment reports, and adopted the Rosedale Estate Masterplan. Council also reaffirmed its previous position regarding lease arrangements for the Scone Regional Saleyards. Further details are available in the Corporate Services Committee agenda on Council’s website: https://www.upperhunter.nsw.gov.au/Council/Council-and-Committee-Meetings/Council-and-Committee-Meetings/CORP-20-March-2026 General administration matters Items considered included motions for the 2026 National General Assembly, policy reviews and planning for 2026 ANZAC Day services. Confidential reports Council considered matters including a request for quote for the Kingdon Street causeway and culvert upgrade, the appointment of an independent member to the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee, the Gummun Place Hostel transition, and the General Manager’s performance review. In relation to Gummun Place, council resolved: