Narrabri Shire Council will launch a new series of community engagement events, Community Conversations, aimed at strengthening connections with residents and creating more opportunities for face-to-face feedback.
The sessions, previously known as Your Village Matters, have been rebranded, but their purpose remains unchanged: to maintain strong links with the community and hear directly from residents, particularly those who do not engage with Council via social media or its website.
Under the initiative, Council staff will attend locations across the Shire, establishing a visible and approachable presence where residents can share views, ask questions, and learn more about Council projects and priorities.
The program will run twice each year. The first round will focus on upcoming projects, strategic plans and policy initiatives, while a second round later in the year will report back on progress, outcomes and how community feedback has informed Council decisions.
Narrabri Shire Council General Manager Eloise Chaplain said the initiative reflects Council’s commitment to improving engagement and transparency.
“Community Conversations is about meeting people where they are and making it easier for everyone to have their say,” Chaplain said.
“We want to build a stronger understanding of how Council operates, while also listening closely to what matters most to our residents as we plan for the future of the Shire.”
Residents of all ages and backgrounds across the Shire are encouraged to attend, with Council seeking input from a broad cross-section of the community.
“These sessions are an opportunity for everyone to be part of the conversation – whether you’re new to the region or have called it home for decades,” Chaplain said.
“We’re encouraging the community to consider both immediate priorities and the bigger picture, and to share their ideas on how they want their towns and villages to grow and thrive.”
Each session will include updates on key projects, opportunities to speak directly with Council staff, and interactive activities for all ages.
Community Conversations will be held across the Shire from 22 April to 17 May.
Residents unable to attend in person can participate online via:
www.narrabri.nsw.gov.au/communityconversations
The website provides information on current projects on exhibition and alternative ways to submit feedback.
Council will attend the following locations:
- Pilliga Community Hall – Wednesday, 22 April, 2.45pm to 5.00pm
- Baan Baa Community Hall – Thursday, 23 April, 3.30pm to 5.30pm
- Bellata War Memorial Hall – Wednesday, 29 April, 3.30pm to 5.30pm
- Gwabegar Hall – Wednesday, 6 May, 3.00pm to 5.15pm
- Narrabri West Lake – Saturday, 9 May, 8.30am to 10.30am
- Wee Waa Showground (during Cotton Country Muster) – Saturday, 9 May, 1.00pm to 3.00pm
- Gardeners Gala, Eulah Creek Hall – Saturday, 16 May, 10.00am to 2.00pm
- Boggabri Court House and Vickery Park – Sunday, 17 May, 10.30am to 12.30pm
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