Preferred name selected for the new Gunnedah bridge

August 27, 2021

Two preferred names for the new second road over rail bridge were selected by Councillors at Wednesday’s August Ordinary Council Meeting.

Council chose to put forward both an Aboriginal and European name, with the preferred name being the Reginald Talbot and Doc Anderson Bridge.

Mayor of Gunnedah Shire Cr Jamie Chaffey said Reginald Talbot and Doc Anderson’s outstanding contributions to the community during their lifetimes made them worthy choices.

“There were so many deserving names put forward in the submissions, making this decision a very difficult task,” Cr Chaffey said.

“The two individuals chosen helped shape the Gunnedah we know today and it would be fitting to see their contribution recognised through the naming of the Gunnedah Bridge.

“Reginald Talbot was a Gamilaraay Elder, traditional custodian of the area and founding member of the Red Chief Aboriginal Lands Council. He established the Gunnedah Gunya Aboriginal Corporation and facilitated the Community Development Employment Projects scheme in Gunnedah, helping provide local Aboriginal youth with gainful employment.

“Reginald Talbot was a valued member of many community groups including the National Parks and Wildlife Management Committee and helped form the Gunnedah Min Min Aboriginal Corporation. He is remembered for his dedication to making a better life for his people and was well respected by both the Aboriginal and broader Gunnedah communities.

“Doctor Colin Anderson was a surgeon in World War I and was awarded a Military Cross for his distinguished service. His career as a general practitioner in Gunnedah spanned 47 years from 1920 to 1967, during which he helped to deliver a remarkable 3,500 babies.

“Doctor Anderson was a valued member of many community organisations including the Rotary Club, Show Society, Ambulance Society and Red Cross, and helped to establish the Returned Servicemen’s League in Gunnedah.”

Gunnedah Shire Council will now recommend these names to Transport for NSW for final consideration.

Caption: The Reginald Talbot Bridge and Doc Anderson Bridge was the preferred name for the new Gunnedah bridge.

ENDS

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