There has been a positive outcome in the Per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) situation in Warialda’s water supply.

Two bores – the Saleyard and Gragin Road bores – had no detectable levels of PFAS and the town’s water was secured from these bores. The bores at Hospital Park and Crane Street tested positive for PFAS and those bores are now disconnected from the water supply.

Well done to the Gwydir Shire Council, mayor Tiff Galvin and general manager Max Eastcott for their efforts throughout the situation. I would also like to thank the Warialda community for their upbeat and positive outlook over the last couple of weeks.

Mobile office in Nowendoc

On Monday I went to our southern-most town in the electorate at Nowendoc for a mobile office. There was a great community turn out and we spoke about several different concerns. Overall, it was a very productive meeting and I would like to thank the community for their hospitality.

Bundarra phone tower

Tuesday I was notified by Telstra the new phone tower in Bundarra is up and running. The new tower will see improved signal performance and take pressure off the other tower servicing the area, making communications better for everyone!

The Nowendoc community turned out to support Brendan Moylan’s mobile office on Monday early in the week.

HSC results

Results from this year’s Higher School Certificate are in. A huge congratulations to all students for achieving this milestone. This is only the beginning of a new chapter. Whether you are pursuing further education, joining the workforce, or still weighing up your options, best of luck in all your future endeavours.

Farm fire fighting vehicle trial

The NSW Government is undergoing a trial to exempt vehicles used to fight fires from registration. Participants can nominate a Farm Fire Fighting Vehicle (FFFV), or a vehicle used for firefighting purposes. The nominated vehicle must be declared suitable for safe use and in serviceable condition. They will only be permitted on public roads in connection with emergency bushfire incidents within a 100km radius of the storage address. The trial will be running until 31 March 2025. For more information, or to nominate for the trial, visit transport.nsw.gov.au/farm-fire-fighting-vehicle-nomination

Community Building Partnerships grants

The 2025 Community Building Partnership program will open on 28 January 2025. Grants from $10,000 to $100,000 are available for infrastructure projects which deliver positive social, environmental and recreational outcomes, while also promoting community participation, inclusion and cohesion.

For more information and eligibility criteria, visit nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/community-building-partnership-2025

Christmas message

The Christmas season is a chance to have a break and enjoy some time with family and friends. While we’re celebrating, let’s also remember those who’ll be working over the Christmas break. A huge thanks to all the emergency services workers – police, firefighters, ambulance officers, nurses, doctors, and SES volunteers – who keep working over Christmas.

If you still have Christmas shopping to do, why not shop local? Small businesses are the heart of our region, and this is a perfect time to help them thrive. Please take it easy on the roads if you’re travelling.

It’s been a busy year for the Northern Tablelands. Since becoming your local MP, I’ve made it my priority to make sure our voices are heard, and I’m proud to keep working on your behalf.

Thanks for your support, and I’m looking forward to continuing our work together in the year ahead. On behalf of my family – Catherine, Lucy, Rory, and Milly – I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

The Moree and Armidale Electorate Offices will be closed from this afternoon and will re-open Monday, 6 January 2025.

I look forward to catching up with everyone in the new year.

Commentary by Brendan Moylan, Member for Northern Tablelands