Deputy Premier Visits Gilgandra
Published on 09 April 2018
Media Release 09 April 2018
DEPUTY PREMIER VISITS GILGANDRA & TALKS INLAND RAIL
For immediate release.
Gilgandra Shire Council seized the opportunity to showcase Gilgandra and the opportunities presented to our Shire, particularly on the back of Inland Rail, to the Hon John Barrilaro MP, Deputy Premier, Minister for Regional New South, Minister for Skills, Minister for Small Business and the Leader of the Nationals while he was in town for the Nationals preselection meeting.
Deputy Mayor, Ash Walker says
“It was great having the Deputy Premier in town. We took the time to discuss the opportunities that exist for our community, particularly as we prepare for the construction of the Narromine to Narrabri section of the Inland Rail. The Narromine to Narrabri section is approximately 300km and Gilgandra is within 1 hour travel time for more than half of the section. We highlighted the competitive advantages of being located so close and the opportunities that exist during construction and post construction.”
Deputy Mayor Cr Walker added that while ARTC are still consulting with land holders on the important factors of the ultimate rail line location and the mitigating the impacts to local land holders, Council also needs to be planning for the opportunities that exist during construction and post construction.”
“A particular focus of the conversation was centred on Council’s focus on capacity building for existing businesses including training and upskilling opportunities for locals and generally making sure our community is Inland Rail ready. We know that there is a lot of work ahead to have Gilgandra ready. The last thing Council wants is a Fly-In-Fly-Out (FIFO) or Drive-In-Drive-Out (DIDO) workforce building the railway line without a significant contribution from locals. Local participation is a critical focus for Council.”
Mr Barrilaro was given a tour around the Gilgandra township and was suitably impressed by the facilities, particularly Cooee Lodge, Jack Towney and Orana Living. He experienced firsthand the progress of roadworks on Federation Street, which is a state funded project. Mr Barrilaro complemented the Gilgandra community for being proactive in providing high-level community services and on the ability to perform major construction activities, both of which will serve Council well as it ramps up its focus on being Inland Rail ready.
Mr Barrilaro left Gilgandra by giving an undertaking that the State Government will provide assistance to Council and the community.
If you have any questions on how you can become Inland Rail ready or on the opportunities for businesses, please do not hesitate to contact Council directly on 6817 8800, email council@gilgandra.nsw.gov.au or visit us at Warren Road.
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Contact: Kathryn Larkin
Community Engagement Officer
Phone: 02 6817 8800