News Centre

MEDIA RELEASE 31 August 2020

With the popularity of Kids Central continuing to grow, a new booking system will come into effect on Monday, 31 August to reduce waiting times and ensure spots for visitors.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said the Rail Museum’s Kids Central has proven to be very popular with families and there have been times when visitors have had to wait to get into Kids Central.

“The new booking system will ensure that everyone has an opportunity to experience the fun of Kids Central and maximise the value of visiting the facility,” he said.

The museum is open 9.00am -4.30pm 6 days per week. Closed Thursdays.

Session times are:

·9.00am -11.00am

·11.00am - 1.00pm

·1.00pm – 3.00pm

·3.00pm – 4.30pm

To book, phone 6338 2850 or visit www.museumsbathurst.com.au

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 28 August 2020

Youth Council recognises R U OK? Day

The Youth Council will dress trees in Machattie Park and Kings Parade in yellow to promote awareness of RU OK? Day.

The day is dedicated to reminding everyone that every day is a day to ask, ‘Are you ok?’ and start a conversation that could change a life and help those struggling with everyday life ups and downs.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said the initiative encourages people to check in with their family and friends.

“Now is more important than ever to keep in touch and help your friends and family who might be struggling. One question might change their lives, he said.”

The display will be on from 10 – 12 September. People are reminded to practice social distancing if they walk through the display. For more information visit www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 28 August 2020

Positive Ageing Strategy

Council is developing a Positive Ageing Strategy that will aim to improve the region’s ability to

cater for an ageing population. For more information on the strategy, to register your interest to attend planned focus groups or to provide feedback visit www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/positiveageing.

Tree Planting Day

Flying Fox Habitat - Macquarie River - 10am, Sunday 6 September

The meeting point is at the end of Morrisset Street (just near the Wastewater Treatment Plant).

To ensure safe hygiene practices, please bring your own gardening gloves. Council will provide hand washing facilities. Due to COVID Safe Guidelines, volunteers must register prior. For further information or to register please contact Bill Josh on 0407 256 791 or Kristie Kearney on 6333 6233.

Applications to join the Youth Council are open

Apply now to be part of the 2020/2021 Bathurst Regional Youth Council. The Youth Council consists of 14 members aged between 15 and 18 years and is an opportunity for young people to engage with Council and other youth service providers. Application forms are available from school coordinators or Council’s website Applications close 4:00pm on Tuesday, 15 September. For more information please call Council’s Community Services section on 6333 6523.

Sporting Association Grants

Each year Council provides a grant scheme to assist local sporting organisations to undertake

specific works or purchase equipment for the advancement of sport in the Bathurst region.

Sporting organisations that are affiliated with the Bathurst District Sport and Recreation Council

are eligible to apply for these grants. A total of $20,000 has been allocated to this scheme.

Further information and application forms are available from Council’s Recreation Section on

6333 6285 or Council’s website www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au Applications close on Tuesday 29 September.

Access Improvement Small Business Grants

Council in partnership with the Bathurst Regional Access Committee provides grants to assist local small businesses and non-profit organisations improve access and inclusion to their place of business/organisation.

Businesses and non-profit organisations within the Bathurst region may apply for funding of either

50% of project costs, or up to a maximum of $5,000 on a dollar for dollar basis.

Projects must be completed within the 2020/2021 financial year to be eligible to apply for a grant.

Retrospective funding will be considered providing the project is completed in the current financial

year.

For further details and/or application packages, phone 6333 6523 or visit www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au. Applications close at 4.00pm on Friday, 2 October.

Library

Author Talk Julie Ankers

In-person author talks are now back at the library. On Wednesday, 2 September at 6pm Julie will discuss her latest book, Bold, Brave & (bloody) Brilliant - the third instalment in her trilogy exploring life for over 50s. Capturing stories from 15 different people, it paints an inspiring picture of what it’s like living today as a ‘third ager’.

Bookings can be made via Eventbrite or by calling the library on 6333 6281.

BRAG

“The Archibald Prize 2019 is now open at Bathurst Regional Art Gallery.

Eagerly anticipated and often controversial, The Archibald Prize for portraiture is Australia’s most prestigious and oldest painting prize. Presented by the Art Gallery of New South Wales and ANZ, the annual prize features portraits of Australian public figures from artists, actors and musicians to politicians and media personalities and sports stars.

Some notable high-profile Australians in the 2019 Archibald Prize include media personalities Annabel Crabb, Benjamin Law and Leigh Sales, Paralympian Dylan Alcott, rugby league star Greg Inglis and musician Megan Washington.

The 2019 Archibald Prize was awarded to Tony Costa for his portrait of fellow artist Liny Lee. This was Costa’s fourth time as a finalist for the prize. The packing room prize was awarded to Tessa MacKay’s portrait of actor David Wenham and a highly commended honour went to Jude Rae’s portrait of actor Sarah Peirse. When visiting the 2019 Archibald Prize at BRAG don’t forget to vote for the ANZ People’s Choice Award for your chance to win $500 courtesy of ANZ. Voting is now open and closes 5pm Friday 18 media@bathurst.nsw.gov.auSeptember with the announcement of the winner on Saturday 3 October.

For more information visit www.bathurstart.com.au

Easing of Water Restrictions

As a result of recent rainfall, high level water restrictions will apply for all residents, businesses

and community services.

The following restrictions apply at the high level;

• Watering of lawns and gardens is allowed up to 60 minutes in total per day before 10am or after 4pm using the odds and evens system
• Cars can be washed on the lawn with a trigger nozzle before 10am or after 4pm
• Swimming pools can be filled for a maximum of 15 minutes per day before 10am or after 4pm, a pool cover must be used
• Garden features, bird baths and children’s pools can be filled

For more information please visit the council website www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/

waterrestrictions or phone the water restrictions hotline on 6333 1683.

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 25 August 2020

Council is developing a strategy that will aim to improve the region’s ability to cater for an ageing population.

The Positive Ageing Strategy will be drafted in line with NSW Ageing Strategy which details state-wide priorities for an ageing population and will focus on health and wellbeing, working and retiring, transport, housing and inclusive communities.

Mayor Bobby Bourke is urging residents to assist with the development of this strategy.

“While it’s important that we hear from our senior residents, it’s also important that we get ideas from all sectors of the community as an ageing population is an issue for everyone,” he said.

Consultation will commence today and includes a survey available on the Bathurst YourSay website and hard copies are available at the Civic Centre, Library, the Seymour Centre and participating GP surgeries. Surveys close 25 September.

A focus group will be held for community members at BMEC on 23 September and residents must register their interest by 18 September. A second focus group will be held on 24 September for aged care service providers. Social distancing measures will be in place at both sessions.

For more information or to register visit www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/positiveageing or phone 6333 6523.

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 25 August 2020

With the increased inflow into Chifley Dam, Council will move from extreme level water restrictions to high level water restrictions as of Friday, 28 August.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said it was wonderful news that the dam level is going up, but we need to continue to be water wise.

“The move to high level water restrictions will allow residents and businesses a little more flexibility in their water use, while still focusing on measures to preserve our precious drinking water, he said.

“The move to high level water restrictions will also allow Council to continue to monitor the forecast rainfall and demand for water into the summer period.”

Under high level water restrictions:

• Lawns and gardens can be watered by irrigation systems or hoses fitted with trigger nozzles for up to 60 minutes total per day before 10am or after 4pm on an odds and evens basis.
  
  
• Car washing is permitted on lawns with bucket and hose with trigger nozzle.
  
  
• Topping up of pools is limited to 15 minutes per day and is to be before 10am and after 4pm. Pool covers need to be in place and be managed according to the supplier/pool expert recommendations.

For more information visit www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/waterrestrictions.

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 21 August 2020

Tree Planting Day

Flying Fox Habitat- Macquarie River - 10am, Sunday 6 September

The meeting point is at the end of Morrisset Street (just near the Wastewater Treatment Plant).

To ensure safe hygiene practices, please bring your own gardening gloves. Council will provide hand washing facilities. Due to COVID Safe Guidelines, volunteers must register prior. For further information or to register please contact Bill Josh on 0407 256 791 or Kristie Kearney on 6333 6233.

Applications to join the Youth Council are open

Apply now to be part of the 2020/2021 Bathurst Regional Youth Council. The Youth Council consists of 14 members aged between 15 and 18 years and is an opportunity for young people to engage with Council and other youth service providers. Application forms are available from school coordinators or Council’s website Applications close 4:00pm on Tuesday, 15 September. For more information please call Council’s Community Services section on 6333 6523.

Sporting Association Grants

Each year Council provides a grant scheme to assist local sporting organisations to undertake

specific works or purchase equipment for the advancement of sport in the Bathurst region.

Sporting organisations that are affiliated with the Bathurst District Sport and Recreation Council

are eligible to apply for these grants. A total of $20,000 has been allocated to this scheme.

Further information and application forms are available from Council’s Recreation Section on

6333 6285 or Council’s website www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au Applications close on Tuesday 29 September.

Library

Author Talk Julie Ankers

In-person author talks are now back at the library. On Wednesday, 2 September at 6pm Julie will discuss her latest book, Bold, Brave & (bloody) Brilliant - the third instalment in her trilogy exploring life for over 50s. Capturing stories from 15 different people, it paints an inspiring picture of what it’s like living today as a ‘third ager’.

Bookings can be made via Eventbrite or by calling the library on 6333 6281.

BRAG

“The Archibald Prize 2019 is now open at Bathurst Regional Art Gallery.

Eagerly anticipated and often controversial, The Archibald Prize for portraiture is Australia’s most prestigious and oldest painting prize. Presented by the Art Gallery of New South Wales and ANZ, the annual prize features portraits of Australian public figures from artists, actors and musicians to politicians and media personalities and sports stars.

Some notable high-profile Australians in the 2019 Archibald Prize include media personalities Annabel Crabb, Benjamin Law and Leigh Sales, Paralympian Dylan Alcott, rugby league star Greg Inglis and musician Megan Washington.

The 2019 Archibald Prize was awarded to Tony Costa for his portrait of fellow artist Liny Lee. This was Costa’s fourth time as a finalist for the prize. The packing room prize was awarded to Tessa MacKay’s portrait of actor David Wenham and a highly commended honour went to Jude Rae’s portrait of actor Sarah Peirse. When visiting the 2019 Archibald Prize at BRAG don’t forget to vote for the ANZ People’s Choice Award for your chance to win $500 courtesy of ANZ. Voting is now open and closes 5pm Friday 18 September with the announcement of the winner on Saturday 3 October.

For more information visit www.bathurstart.com.au

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 21 August 2020

A draft master plan for Bathurst’s town centre is being currently being developed by consultants Allen Jack + Cottier Architects based on feedback gained from the community.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said at this time the draft master plan for the Bathurst Town Centre has not been completed and has not yet been presented to Council for consideration.

“The community can still lodge feedback on the concepts at any time through the YourSay Bathurst website which includes a range of information on the master plan process.”

“When the draft master plan is received in coming months, Council will consider the matter and the draft master plan will be placed on public exhibition for feedback and consultation will be undertaken with businesses and the community.”

The Bathurst Town Centre Master plan encompasses seven blocks and aims to strengthen the town centre as a regional business and cultural hub, improve linkages and thoroughfares and complement the heritage character of the town centre in addition to reuse options for the former TAFE site.

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 19 August 2020

ClubGRANTS

Local recipients have shared in $56,000 worth of ClubGRANTS funding from Bathurst Panthers and Bathurst RSL for a range of projects, services and initiatives that benefit the community.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said the program provides funds each year to a variety of causes and organisations across the community.

“While the overall donation is less than previous years as a result of the closure of both clubs from March to June, it is wonderful to see Panthers and the RSL still able to support our community,” he said.

“I would like to thank Panthers and the RSL for their efforts in making these funds available to support our valuable community organisations.”

Ian Miller from the RSL said there was a broad spread of recipients from across the local government area.

“The RSL and Panthers work well together for the benefit of the community and community groups”, he said.

Norm Mann from Panthers said it was important to assist community groups via the ClubGRANTS program.

“It is even more important to be able to assist this year with community groups being heavily impacted by COVID,” he said.

ClubGRANTS recipients are:

·Western Region Academy of Sport

·New Horizons

·Hope Care Bathurst

·Bathurst Community Transport Radiation Bus

·Autism Spectrum Australia

·TAD Disability Services

·Veritas House Inc. – Emergency Brokerage Funding

·Road Safety Education Ltd

·Bathurst Seymour Centre – Caring for Local Carers

·Bathurst Seymour Centre – Part of the Local Community

·Defence Bank Foundation

·Central West Brain Injury Action Group Inc.

·Sofala Progress Association

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 18 August 2020

Applications are now open for young people aged from 15 - 18 years to join the Bathurst Regional Youth Council.

The Youth Council provides opportunities to participate in the community by organising events for young people, having a say on local issues that affect young people in the Bathurst region and working towards projects that support and encourage local youth.

Bathurst Mayor Bobby Bourke said being a member of the Youth Council provides many benefits to individuals who join.

“Participating in the Youth Council is a wonderful chance to provide input into our community’s future. Young people gain valuable experience that will benefit them for many years to come,” he said.

Applications are open until 15 September. To apply visit www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au or phone 6333 6523.

Ends

More information: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 14 August 2020

What’s News

Sunnybright Estate

Council has released Stage B of the Sunnybright Estate Residential Development. The ballot for Stage B will be live streamed on Council’s YouTube channel. Further details are on Council’s website or call the Property Section on 6333 6235.

Consultation for 16 Regional Cities Services Improvement Program

Transport for NSW is seeking feedback from public transport users and the wider community in the Bathurst area about how the local bus network is used, service needs and desires. This will help inform future planning to create a better bus network for Bathurst. Feedback can be submitted online at yoursay.transport.nsw.gov.au/better-bus-network-bathurst, by calling 1800 717 528, emailing regionalcitiesprogram@transport.nsw.gov.au or by post to 16 Regional Cities – Bathurst, Locked Bag 2030, Newcastle NSW 2300.

Comments close Sunday 16 August 2020.

Sporting Association Grants

Each year Council provides a grant scheme to assist local sporting organisations to undertake

specific works or purchase equipment for the advancement of sport in the Bathurst Region.

Sporting organisations that are affiliated with the Bathurst District Sport and Recreation Council

are eligible to apply for these grants. A total of $20,000 has been allocated to this scheme.

Further information and application forms are available from Council’s Recreation Section on

6333 6285 or Council’s website www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au Applications close on Tuesday 29 September.

Tourism Survey

Council needs the help of the community to better understand the impact of visiting friends

and relatives to the Bathurst region economy. You are invited to participate in a short survey

which will assist Council in tourism planning and in ensuring our region is meeting the needs of

visitors both today and into the future. All who complete the survey will go into the draw to win

one of 20 Buy Local Gift Cards to the value of $25. The survey can be accessed at the Tourism

Feedback project on YourSay Bathurst.

Learner Driver Workshops for Supervisors

Join one of the free online workshops full of practical advice and information for parents, carers and supervisors of learners drivers completing the Graduated Licensing Scheme.

Two sessions available.

Wednesday 19 August 6.00pm

Thursday 20 August 12.30pm

Bookings essential. Follow the links at Facebook.com/BBRoadSafety

Library

The library has returned to regular opening hours, Monday to Friday 10am – 6pm and Saturday and Sunday 10am -3pm.

Small groups are now able to use the library, however groups of six or more must book ahead.

For more information or to make bookings phone 6333 6281 or email library@bathurst.nsw.gov.au

Author Talk - Isobelle Carmody

Thursday 20 August, 6pm

Australian author Isobelle Carmody started writing her acclaimed fantasy series ‘Obernewtyn Chronicles’ while she was still in high school. Since then she has gone on to win countless writing awards. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a fantasy fan or a long-time fan of Isobelle’s books, don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect across borders with this amazing author.

Online event, register via Bathurst Library website or Eventbrite.

BRAG

Three exhibitions will be presented at BRAG. The 2019 Archibald Prize, the Bathurst Young Archies Competition and Pictures of You will be on display from Saturday, August 15 to Sunday, October 11.

The Archibald Prize for portraiture is Australia’s most prestigious and oldest painting prize. Presented by the Art Gallery of New South Wales and ANZ, the annual prize features portraits of Australian public figures from artists, actors and musicians to politicians and media personalities and sports stars.

Exhibited alongside the Archibald will be the finalists of the Bathurst Young Archie Competition presented by ANZ. The exhibition of the Young Archie will consist the top five entries in each age categories.

The images in Pictures of You have been selected to represent the impact COVID-19 pandemic had on members of the central west community, they are taken during isolation or more recently.

Aerial Weed Spraying

The Upper Macquarie County Council (UMCC) will be conducting two aerial spraying programs in spring and autumn 2020/2021. UMCC will co-ordinate a helicopter and chemical to spray weeds for participating landholders at a competitive price. Spraying is conducted at a minimum of five hectares for serrated tussock (liquid), four hectares (granules) and three hectares for blackberry (liquid).

For more information contact UMCC on 6338 2875.

ENDS

Media contact: Media Contact