Delegates, Ministers to converge on city

Published on 15 April 2021

Broken Hill will host delegates from across various Local Government Areas next week with the Annual General Meeting of the Western Division of Councils of NSW to be held in the city.

The 'Western Division' covers 42% of the state, and over 50 Council delegates will attend from Balranald, Bourke, Brewarrina, Broken Hill, Central Darling Shire, Cobar Shire, Walgett Shire, Lachlan Shire, Warren Shire, Coonamble Shire, and Wentworth Shire.

The Mayors and General Managers of member Councils will meet to co-ordinate and collaborate on matters of common interest in order to present a united front when lobbying the State and Federal Governments.

The delegates will also be joined at the meeting by 16 Ministers from across the political spectrum.

Western Division Acting Chair, Councillor Dave Gallagher, said all attendees would appreciate the opportunity to hold the AGM in person after COVID-19 put paid to last year's meeting.

"All the motions that couldn't be tabled at last year's AGM have been rolled into this meeting or revised, so there's going to be plenty to consider," he said.

"It's quite a big agenda with motions about everything from better access to loans and airstrip upgrades, through to better electrical infrastructure and tackling wild dogs.

"I'm sure there'll be plenty of robust discussion around how we can all work together to achieve our common goals."

Mayor Darriea Turley AM welcomed the visitors and encouraged locals to ensure all delegates, Ministers, and their families feel right at home in the Silver City.

"This meeting is obviously important for all Councils in a business sense, but it will also be a great economic boost for our city with so many people attending," said Mayor Turley.

"We'll be encouraging all visitors to get out and take in all our city has to offer - when they're not busy discussing Local Government matters, of course.

"I encourage all locals and businesses to make our visitors feel welcome, and offer the friendliness and hospitality our city is known for."

The Annual General Meeting of the Western Division of Councils of NSW will begin with a welcome reception on April 19 at the Railway and Historical Museum, followed by two days of meetings at the Civic