Pool Fencing

News reports of drownings, some in private pools are a timely reminder of the dangers that can be encountered while swimming.   It is critical to remain vigilant at all times and the proper upkeep of the protective fencing around pools is an essential part of pool safety.  

Council staff have a program to inspect all known swimming pools within our region and in fact this is required under the Swimming Pools Act 1992. Following an inspection, the owner of a satisfactory pool is provided with a Certificate of Compliance which remains valid for three years.

Owners of pools which are non-compliant will receive a report on issues to be rectified and a timeframe for completion.  If you have recently installed a pool and have been issued with an Occupation Certificate, this certificate is valid for three years and negates the requirement to have a Certificate of Compliance. With a huge number of swimming pools in the Upper Hunter Shire, Council conducts at least 150 inspections a year.

Fire Danger

Fire danger is ever present during the summer months with spot fires igniting on occasion. One was allegedly caused by a cigarette butt being thrown out beside a road.

The fire was brought under control and extinguished, thanks to the excellent reporting and attendance by the local Rural Fire Service brigades. Please take care to ensure that there is nothing left behind that can start a fire.

Community Strategic Plan

The community engagement for the shire’s Community Strategic Plan will ramp up again with two more community pop up sessions planned, one on the 1st February, 5.30pm to 8.30pm at the Touch Footy on the No. 1 oval in Merriwa and the second at the Pink Stumps Day fundraiser hosted by Belltrees Cricket Club in Belltrees. These sessions have shown our engagement with the community and we have found that going to popular local events has proven to be effective.

There will be more events planned for the first part of this year. I encourage you to attend or send your comments to the Council office for inclusion in the plan. A form can be downloaded online www.upperhunter.nsw.gov.au.

Capital Works

Our capital works programme for the year has started with major infrastructure works planned for MR358 (Willow Tree Road), which will start in the last quarter of this financial year.  

Upgrading works on the Golden Highway and New England Highway will cause some delays in traffic movement, and although Council is the point of contact for the Golden Highway work within our Shire, RMS is the contact agency for all New England Highway work. In addition, it was pleasing to note the fresh line marking and pedestrian crossings that occurred before Christmas in Merriwa. Now we have no excuse for not parking correctly....

Young People Activity

There are still some programmes arranged for young people during the school holidays.  Details are on Council’s website www.upperhunter.nsw.gov.au

Australia Day

I encourage you to support and attend the planned Australia Day celebrations in your area. This is a great day for us to celebrate our national day and I would encourage you all to get involved.