Mayors Column 23 October 2026
Published on 23 October 2026
There are a number of important matters happening across the Upper Hunter at the moment, from opportunities to have your say on local infrastructure to recognising the people making a difference in our community.
Transport for NSW is currently reviewing its Timber Truss Bridges Strategy, which guides the preservation and maintenance of historic timber road bridges across the state. The latest strategy identifies 27 bridges for retention due to their heritage significance, including Junction Bridge at Upper Rouchel, which opened in 1930. These bridges are an important part of our history, and I encourage residents to have their say on how their heritage can be preserved while meeting modern transport needs. Feedback closes on Friday 30 October, with details available through the Transport for NSW Have Your Say website.
On the note of infrastructure, Council has expressed its disappointment at the NSW Local Government Grants Commission's decision not to complete its review of the Financial Assistance Grants methodology. Under the proposed model, Upper Hunter's projected allocation for 2027–28 was approximately $9.2 million, compared with $7.3 million under the existing model. That additional $1.9 million would have made a significant difference in maintaining infrastructure and delivering essential services. The cost of keeping a bridge safe or maintaining a rural road does not disappear simply because fewer ratepayers live nearby. Council will continue advocating for fairer funding arrangements that better recognise the challenges facing rural communities.
On a more celebratory note, I would like to congratulate Corinne Bell from Upper Hunter Family Day Care, who has been named the Regional Educator Winner for Newcastle, Maitland and Hunter in the 2026 Excellence in Family Day Care Awards. This is a fantastic achievement and recognition of the care and dedication Corinne brings to her work with local children and families. Congratulations, Corinne, and all the best as you progress to the national stage.
Council currently has several employment opportunities available, including a Works Engineer based in Merriwa, a temporary Development Assessment Planner, Building Surveyor, Youth Assistant and Trainee Compliance Officer. The trainee position is particularly worth considering for school leavers looking to begin their career in local government. These roles offer opportunities to work across different areas of Council and contribute to our communities. I encourage anyone interested to visit the Jobs page of Council’s Website and explore the current vacancies.
A reminder that nominations for the 2027 Upper Hunter Shire Australia Day Awards are closing soon, at 4.30pm on Wednesday 4 November. If you know someone who deserves recognition for their contribution to our community, please take a few minutes to put their name forward. There are so many people across our Shire who quietly give their time and make a difference, and these awards are an opportunity to recognise their efforts. Head to the Australia Day Nomination page to submit a nomination before the deadline.
Finally, I would like to invite residents to our upcoming Meet Your Councillors session at Aberdeen Hall on Saturday 31 October. Myself, Cr Troy Stolz, Cr Earle Shields and Cr Alison McPhee will be available between 10am to 11:30am for an informal chat over a cup of tea or coffee. This is an opportunity to raise matters important to you, ask questions or simply get to know your elected representatives a little better.
We plan to hold similar sessions in other towns across the Shire, with further details to be announced following the Aberdeen event. I look forward to meeting residents and hearing what's on your minds.
Cr Pat Ryan
Mayor