Mayors Column 27 July 2026

Published on 27 July 2026

There is plenty happening across the Upper Hunter over the coming weeks, with important national reminders, local works and opportunities for our communities to get involved.

If you are reading this before 2.00pm today (27 July 2026) , please be aware that the Australian Government will conduct a nationwide test of AusAlert, the new national emergency warning system scheduled to launch in October. Compatible mobile phones, tablets and smart watches may receive a test alert with a loud siren-style sound and vibration lasting about 10 seconds. Anyone concerned that the alert may cause distress or disruption should switch their device off or place it in aeroplane mode before 2.00pm and leave it that way for at least one hour. If you are reading this after 2.00pm, you may have already received the test alert. The test will help ensure the system is ready to provide timely warnings during future emergencies.

I would also like to remind residents that illegal dumping has no place in our countryside. Whitegoods were recently dumped near Aberdeen, despite scrap metal being accepted free of charge at Council’s waste facilities. Electronic waste, cardboard, gas bottles, batteries, light globes and motor oil can also be disposed of free of charge. Illegal dumping harms the environment, creates hazards and costs ratepayers money to clean up. Anyone caught may face significant fines and clean-up costs. Council’s A to Z Waste Guide is available online for anyone unsure about where an item should go.

In Murrurundi, Council is seeking expressions of interest for the future community use of land at 47 Paradise Lane. The 948.5 square metre site contains a former Council water tank and is zoned RU1. Applicants may express interest in using the land, obtaining the tank, or both. Proposals should outline the intended community use, required works, expected timeframes and any proposed financial contribution. Applications close at 4.30pm on Monday 17 August, with full details available here - https://www.upperhunter.nsw.gov.au/Public-notices/EOI-Use-of-land-for-Community-Purpose

Profiling and asphalting at the Main Street and St Aubin’s Street intersection in Scone has now been completed. Thank you to residents, businesses and visitors for their patience while these works were carried out. Work will soon continue along the remaining sections of Main Street on either side of the intersection as part of the broader renewal project. Please continue to follow traffic control and signage while crews are on site.

Census night is fast approaching and will take place on Tuesday 11 August. The Census helps guide decisions about services, infrastructure and funding, so every response matters. Information is available through the Australian Bureau of Statistics Census website, with language assistance available through the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450.

Next week marks Local Government Week, running from Monday 3 to Sunday 9 August. The week showcases the broad range of work councils undertake and the many services they provide to their communities. Local government is about far more than rates, roads and rubbish. Throughout the week, Council will be highlighting several employees and sharing more about their roles, experiences and the work they do for residents across the Upper Hunter. I encourage everyone to follow Council’s social media channels and learn more about the people behind the services our communities rely on every day.

Thank you for staying informed and continuing to support the work taking place across our Shire.