Glen Innes Severn and Tenterfield Shire Councils, with support from the NSW and Australian Governments, have secured $305,115 to begin delivering key actions from the Northern New England High Country Regional Drought Resilience Plan.
This funding combines a $250,000 allocation from the government with $55,115 of unspent funds from the Plan Stage, following its successful completion in 2024.
Glen Innes Severn Council Mayor Margot Davis said the funding will turn planning into practical action.
“Through the Plan Stage, the strategies most needed to prepare our communities for future drought were identified. Now, with this Implementation Stage funding, projects will be delivered that will provide lasting benefits for our region, from water security and community wellbeing to more resilient landscapes,” Cr Davis said.
“Our whole community faces real challenges from drought, particularly in the rural sector that underpins our local economy. This funding enables us to move beyond planning and start delivering practical projects that support farmers, rural businesses and the wider community.”
A key part of the Implementation Stage is project coordination led by the Glen Innes Natural Resources Advisory Committee (GLENRAC). GLENRAC will work closely with rural landholders, agricultural groups, local businesses and community organisations to deliver 18 drought resilience events and initiatives targeting about 540 participants.
These activities will focus on:
• Building self-reliance and resilience in the agricultural sector
• Improving natural capital on farms for better environmental and economic outcomes
• Promoting water conservation and sustainable land management practices in rural areas
• Strengthening community health, wellbeing and social connections in both rural and township settings
Alongside this, consultants will review and update economic development and tourism strategies to support drought-resilient growth across the whole community.
Meanwhile, Glen Innes Severn Council, in response to the consultation phase, will undertake targeted climate-resilient landscaping improvements in high-use public spaces to enhance amenity and wellbeing for residents and visitors.
The Implementation Stage is required to be completed by 28 November 2025.
This program is proudly funded by the Australian Government and NSW Government, through the Future Drought Fund, in association with Glen Innes Severn Council and Tenterfield Shire Council.
For more information about the Regional Drought Resilience Planning Program, visit: www.nsw.gov.au/rdrp.
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