It was over 12 years ago that the state government forced amalgamation on the five local government areas that now form this regional council area.

The usual whingeing by some councillors on how much is contributed through rates fails to acknowledge the increased value of government grants to support the operations of Tamworth Regional Council and continues the emotive isolation that the smaller communities endure. 

The mentality of these elected persons questions their competency in keeping up with the dynamics of our developing region, and shows that, even after 12 years, they still cannot accept the fact that they represent us all on Tamworth Regional Council. 

We are all ratepayers and residents of Tamworth Regional Council whom you rely on to vote you into your position as our local government councillors. 

The four themes that the draft operational plan are based on – a spirit of community; a prosperous region; an accessible region; and a region for the future – need to be embraced by all of the elected representatives.

These smaller communities are the jewels in the crown and when we are surviving, Tamworth is thriving.

Shirley Close

Barraba