25-02-2025
Council CEO Alex Waldron, Upper Lachlan Shire Mayor Paul Culhane, Deputy Mayor Rob Cameron, and several other elected councillors met with the Hon. Michael McCormack MP to discuss various issues affecting the community. Upper Lachlan Shire Council is actively advocating for Federal support to secure funding for crucial projects. Without this funding, the Upper Lachlan Shire Council will struggle to deliver several essential initiatives that are vital for the longevity and economic growth of our community.
Mr. McCormack stated, “It was an excellent meeting this morning with the Upper Lachlan Shire Council, joined by several councillors and Council CEO Alex Waldron.” He added, “This was not the first meeting I’ve had with Mayor Culhane or the Council CEO, and it certainly won’t be the last. The discussions raised several important issues, including grant funding, regional infrastructure, roads, telecommunications, renewable energy, and concerns regarding the number of towers being constructed in the area.”
In the past four days, Mr. McCormack mentioned he had met with Mayor Culhane twice, discussing various community concerns and attended the 50th anniversary of Meals on Wheels Crookwell. “This truly demonstrates how this community, along with other small country areas, comes together to volunteer for the benefit of all,” Mr. McCormack continued.
Mayor Culhane welcomed Mr. McCormack’s visit, stating, “It was a productive meeting where we discussed topics that directly impact our Shire residents, placing a significant emphasis on the future of our community. Conversations like these must continue with federal representatives, and I assure you that I, along with the other elected members, will advocate for our Shire.”
“We covered several Important issues related to wind farm developments, Council sustainability, and economic growth in regional and remote areas.” He described the dialogue as positive, noting that they took a walk down the main street, where Mr. McCormack purchased a CD from local artist and long-time community member Mariah K. They also visited Cake Me Up, where owner Shardae expressed excitement about another federal member visiting her establishment.
Their final stop was Ensemble and Co, where Mr. McCormack and Mayor Culhane enjoyed a cup of coffee and met the staff while discussing the vital role local eateries play in enhancing tourism. “We shared a few light hearted stories and reflected on the fantastic Gunning Show event of last weekend” Culhane said.
“While I am extremely pleased with today’s discussions, I am aware that our advocacy must continue. As noted last week, where Chairman of the NSW Country Mayors
Association, Mayor Rick Firman called for the Australian Government and Opposition to commit to the restoration of Financial Assistance Grants funding for Local Government to 1% of taxation revenue.”
“I know that communities like ours appreciate visits and discussions with Federal and State members. I look forward to ongoing conversations with Mr. McCormack and thank him once again for his visit,” concluded Mayor Culhane.