I visited many communities across the electorate this week including Bundarra, Tingha, Inverell, Emmaville, Armidale, Uralla, and Moree to have a look at projects and meet with locals.

On Wednesday, I was joined by the Member for Oxley Michael Kemp MP as we conducted a series of community meetings on the boundary of the Northern Tablelands and Oxley electorates. The main issue that was discussed was the increasingly worrying infestation of Tropical Soda Apple. This weed is causing significant problems for landholders in the Oxley electorate and unfortunately it is starting its march into our electorate.

Michael and I spoke with the community about what they need from the current State Government to properly manage this weed. Whilst we were there, we also had a community meeting at Georges Junction, and we were joined by representatives of Armidale Regional Council to discuss the progress of the Armidale Kempsey Road.

On Thursday, I spent the afternoon as the guest speaker at Newling Gardens Retirement Village in Armidale. What a great bunch of people in a fantastic facility complete with a very impressive spread for afternoon tea!

Also, this week, I’ve been continuing to meet with small businesses for Small Business Month, to help recognise and celebrate the vital role that they play in our communities.

Small business spotlight this week is D & S Meppem Livestock Services of Gurley

Building the Tingha Community Spirit with $11,498 boost

Tingha’s art gallery will be given a much-needed $11,498 boost for mobile display stands, wall hangers, a coffee machine and table and chairs.

The project came about after the devastating 2019 fires that ripped through Tingha, and the organisation was formed to decide what could be done to help the community through that difficult time.

The Building the Tingha Community Spirit Aboriginal Corporation has 45 financial members undertaking different roles to keep the organisation viable and the community active.

Their art gallery is a little gem, attracting artists from near and far to Tingha and allowing locals to share the town’s creative spirit.

The funding was announced in the latest round of the Community Building Partnership, and will help cater for workshops, events, and special occasions.

Well done to Secretary Deb Ross and the hardworking team on this grant!

$21,365 new floor for Bundarra Sport and Rec Club

The Bundarra Sport and Recreation Club has received a $21,365 boost to level the existing function room floor.

I dropped into the Club this week to announce the good news to President Justin Williamson and hardworking committee members.

The Bundarra Sport and Rec Club brings friends, families, and the local community together and is used as a place to relax and socialise.

With over 200 members, it is an important social hub for the small community of Bundarra.

The Rec Club function room holds regular seniors’ exercise groups, Bingo groups, school functions as well as fundraising activities including HACC meals and Antique Bike rallies.

The current floor is uneven and dangerous, and the upgrades will ensure it meets work, health and safety requirements and be a safer place for all.

The grant will ensure this facility is enjoyed for years to come.

Service NSW is coming to Uralla and Guyra

The Service NSW Mobile Service will be in Uralla on October 31 from 9am to 12pm at Apex Memorial Park, 55 Bridge Street.

They will also be at Guyra October 31 from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at the Public Car Park, 119 Bradley Street.

Commentary by Member for Northern Tablelands, Brendan Moylan