30-10-2025
Upper Lachlan Shire Council conducted its first community outreach meeting on Tuesday, 14 October, in Taralga.
The session proved highly informative and attracted strong participation from both Councillors and community members.
The community outreach meeting provided the Taralga community with updates on key strategic documents for the Shire. These included the 2025–2026 Operational Plan, 2025–2034 Infrastructure Plan, Long Term Financial Plan, Delivery Program, Workforce Plan and the Community Strategic Plan 2042.
Recent financial performance indicators were reviewed, such as the unrestricted current ratio, own-source operating revenue, building and infrastructure renewals, and the operating performance ratio. There is improvement in council’s operations following cost-saving initiatives being implemented. These efforts have significantly strengthened the Council’s financial position, with unrestricted cash rising from $117,000 at 30 June 2023 to $1.524 million as of 30 June 2025.
In addition, the meeting highlighted Council’s strengthened cash position through service level adjustments, business unit reviews, and organisational restructuring in 2024. Additionally, proceeds from asset sales replenished internal reserves, such as the buildings and infrastructure reserve, gravel pit reserve and the plant replacement reserve, which are critical community assets.
The latter part of the meeting focused on completed and upcoming projects in Taralga, with more than $4 million invested in capital works in the Taralga district over the past 3 year period. An additional $3.5 million was expensed in the construction upgrade of the Curraweela Bridge over Burra Burra Creek, which was completed earlier this year and has greatly improved accessibility for both residents and visitors.
The session outlined Council’s upcoming works in the area, including heavy patching, kerb and gutter projects, and road rehabilitation valued at over $4 million. Planned projects include road safety upgrades for Taralga/Goulburn Road and new kerb and gutter on Orchard Street pending grant approval.
The meeting concluded with an open discussion between community members and Council’s Executive Team, highlighting strong collaboration and engagement. Following the formal proceedings, there was an opportunity for the community to talk to councillors in a less formal setting.
Council acknowledged the need for continued improvements and provided an opportunity to showcase the range of projects while addressing community concerns on local issues.
Council extends its gratitude to all who attended and looks forward to the upcoming three weeks of community engagement sessions.
The next community outreach meeting will take place at Gunning Shire Hall on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, at 6:00 pm. All residents, ratepayers, and interested individuals are encouraged to attend.
If you are interested in viewing the presentation, click the link: Upper Lachlan Shire Council Community Outreach Meeting – Taralga