Council have been out and about listening to residents finding out the good, the bad and your vision for the future.

These session are providing great insight into what people want and expect in this shire. A big call out to everyone that participated in the survey.

We really want to know what you think and you can easily let us know by emailing to council@upperhunter.nsw.gov.au with your ideas and needs for your shire or drop a written letter to one of the Council offices.

If you are going to one of the following events you can complete your survey there- 

- Belltress Cricket Day, Saturday, February 18.

- Merriwa District Progress Association Meeting (open to the public) at Merriwa RSL from 6pm, Wednesday, February 22.

Fun Run

Council is relocating their monthly markets on March 11 to the Bill Rose Sports Complex, where they will be holding a family fun run to mark International Women’s Day and raise funds for the Olivia Inglis Foundation.  

As you know, Olivia tragically died at the Scone Horse Trials last year.  

We are encouraging everyone to come along and enjoy the day and for those that are interested to take part in the  four kilometre fun run.

Kia Ora Music Camp

This year will be the 18th birthday for the Upper Hunter & Kia-Ora Youth Music Camp which will be held March 22-24.

During the popular annual event, hundreds of young performers will spend three days working and rehearsing with some amazing tutors and conductors, in preparation for a finale concert on the Friday night. 

Highlights for this year will be the Amazing Voice competition, the Kawai Piano workshop and the Tyke-Oh Japanese Drumming program.

The camp is offered to students from Years 3 through to Year 12 at schools across the Upper Hunter Shire.

It is an excellent opportunity for budding musicians, as well as those who wish to try something new in the creative arts area.

There are even places available for students who have no previous background in voice, dance or instrumental tuition.

The music camp encourages young talent and motivates them to develop music in their lives by providing awards and scholarships.

A wide variety of enrolment options are available with classes on concert band, strings, choir, piano and the Amazing Voice Competition. Other electives include dance, Tyke-Oh Japanese drumming and marimbas.

Enrolments are now open and forms are available at all local schools and Council offices.

Enrolling early ensures the best chance of students getting their first preference of electives.  

For more information about enrolment, contact Community Services Officer Amanda Catzikiris, 6540 1153.

Harmony Day

Harmony Day is about community participation, inclusiveness, celebrating diversity, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone.

The Upper Hunter Shire Council’s Scone Library will partner again this year, with the Scone Neighbourhood Centre to organise the event to be held Tuesday, March 21.

Everyone is invited to join us and taste food from around the world, have great conversations with people from many countries and enjoy the cultural entertainment.

To be a part of this night, please phone me on 65452562.

See something that needs fixing or needs reporting please complete an action request form available on Council website or at libraries across the shire or call into a Council office and make staff aware.