Council in brief: New events sign and Alcohol Free Zones change

September 23, 2020

All Signs Lead to Gunnedah

A double-sided electronic event sign will be installed at the Oxley Highway east of Gunnedah, following approval at the September Gunnedah Shire Council Meeting.

The digital noticeboard offers an additional platform of communication with both residents and visitors and uses colourful imagery to welcome visitors and promote sporting, cultural and business events.

The sign will be approximately 8 metres high and over 2 metres wide, visible from up to 85 metres away.

Mayor of Gunnedah Shire Jamie Chaffey said the vibrant, inviting signage at a main entrance was a great way to encourage visitors to stop and spend time in the region. “We have an exciting calendar of events here in the Gunnedah Shire,” Cr Chaffey said. “Sport, agriculture, art – there really is something for everyone.

“This signage will help us promote these events to a wider audience of travellers, and has an added benefit of keeping the community informed about what’s happening around town.”

The installation of the new sign is part of Council’s Economic Development Strategy (EDS) and the Destination Management Plan (DMP), aimed at increasing tourism yield and greater promotion of the Gunnedah Shire.

Alcohol zones change an opportunity for restaurants and cafes

Gunnedah’s Alcohol Free Zones will remain unchanged for another four years, but restaurants and cafes will be now able to apply for outdoor licensing.

Gunnedah Shire Council voted at this month’s Council Meeting to endorse exemptions to the Alcohol Free Zones in the Gunnedah CBD to include licensed outdoor dining and alfresco areas, providing the operators have the relevant approvals under the NSW Local Government Act, the NSW Roads Act and with Liquor and Gaming NSW.

Alcohol Free Zones have been in place in Gunnedah for more than 14 years and are a crime prevention and community safety initiative to reduce binge drinking and alcohol-related assaults in public spaces. They are reviewed every four years and the current Alcohol Free Zone declarations remain in place until 30 June 2024. Penalties apply for infringements.

The recommendation was put to Council after consultation with stakeholders including the Gunnedah Liquor Accord, the Crime Prevention Working Group and other councils.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.