Key Milestone to Secure Safe Drinking Water for Tabulam

By Jeff Gibbs

The remote village of Tabulam in the Northern Rivers is on the brink of a transformative milestone, with plans underway for its first-ever drinking water supply network. A $400,000 investment from Kyogle Council and the Australian Government’s National Water Grid Fund will kickstart early planning for the much-anticipated project.

The co-funded initiative will launch the preliminary business case for a three-stage construction project designed to provide a safe, clean, and reliable water supply to the village’s 500 residents, over a quarter of whom are Aboriginal.

Laying the Groundwork

The new funding builds on a 2021 scoping study, funded by the NSW Government, which explored various infrastructure options to identify the most effective solutions.

The early planning work will deliver detailed analysis and designs for the project, including:

• Stage 1: Hydrogeological investigations, bore construction, and land acquisition for a water treatment plant and reservoir.
• Stage 2: Utilisation of Hall Bore as a raw water source, construction of a new reservoir, and connecting the supply network to village homes.
• Stage 3: Expansion of the water supply source to include Clarence River groundwater and upgrading the treatment plant to accommodate future population growth.

A Lifeline for Tabulam

Currently, Tabulam residents rely entirely on rainwater tanks for drinking and household use, leaving the community vulnerable to water scarcity during droughts. This lack of critical infrastructure has hindered economic growth and driven population decline, with the village losing about 20% of its residents since 2011.

The water supply project, alongside plans for a new town sewerage system, aims to reverse these trends by providing essential services and paving the way for long-term community growth and prosperity.

Voices of Support

NSW DCCEEW Executive Director of Infrastructure Development, Lisa Hingerty, emphasised the significance of the project:

“Every person in NSW deserves clean and reliable drinking water, whether you’re from Sydney or live in one of our most remote communities. This project is a game changer for the hundreds of people who call Tabulam home. Locals have been crying out for this essential infrastructure for decades, and this funding is a significant step toward making that a reality.”

Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland hailed the project as a landmark achievement:

“This is a landmark project for our community, over 70 years in the making. These early planning works are a big tick for Tabulam, setting the village on the path to its first secure water supply network. The benefits will be enormous, from improving health and wellbeing to supporting economic growth and development.”

Looking Ahead

The preliminary business case is expected to be completed by mid to late 2025, moving the project closer to construction. Once realized, the water supply network will provide a secure, treated drinking water source to Tabulam residents, meeting the village’s needs for decades to come.

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Lions Road Reopens with Two New Bridges Ahead of Christmas

Jeff Gibbs

Motorists have received an early festive gift with the reopening of Lions Road, following the completion of two new, flood-resilient bridges by Kyogle Council.

The new Paddys Flat Bridge

Lions Road had been closed since mid-June to allow for the construction of the new Lamonds Bridge. The upgraded two-lane concrete bridge, built by local contractor Ozwide Bridge Rail and Civil, replaces the previous one-lane wooden structure. Standing 1.5 metres higher, the $2 million project was funded under Round 1 of the State Government’s Fixing Country Bridges program, improving road alignment and flood resilience.

The nearby Paddys Flat Bridge has also been replaced with a raised concrete structure, now one metre higher and two metres longer than the old bridge. This $2 million upgrade was completed in just over four months, funded under Round 2 of the same program with additional support from Kyogle Council.

Kyogle Mayor Danielle Mulholland praised the projects as transformative. “The new bridges are safer, more flood-resilient, and will significantly reduce maintenance costs, allowing Council to invest in other critical projects.”

She highlighted Council’s remarkable achievement of replacing 96 bridges in three years, supported by State and Federal Government funding and advocacy from Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin.

NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison celebrated the collaboration with Kyogle Council, noting the upgrades as vital for regional connectivity, tourism, and industries like timber and dairy.

Janelle Saffin MP underscored Lions Road’s value as a scenic tourism route, adding that the works reflect a commitment to sustainability, local economic growth, and safety for residents and visitors alike.

Lions Road is now open, offering safer and more reliable access between New South Wales and Queensland.

Flood Repairs Begin on Fawcetts Plain Road

By Jeff Gibbs

Relief is on the horizon for motorists using Fawcetts Plain Road, with major flood repairs set to commence soon. Kyogle Council has secured $2.05 million in funding under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements to restore the 8.3km road and make critical drainage improvements.

The road sustained significant damage during the 2022 flood event, with conditions worsening over time despite Council’s ongoing patchwork repairs while awaiting funding approval.

Comprehensive Repairs and Timeline

The project, which also includes repairs to Green Pigeon Road and Horseshoe Creek Road, is slated to begin in early December and, weather permitting, should be completed by March 2025.

Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland expressed her relief and gratitude for the funding approval.
“Residents have been waiting for quite some time for this news. It’s great that Council can now get on with the job of fixing the road,” she said.

Work Staging to Minimise Disruption

To ensure efficiency and protect newly repaired sections, Council has scheduled work as follows:

1. Green Pigeon and Horseshoe Creek Roads will be addressed first to avoid heavy construction vehicles traveling over the freshly repaired Fawcetts Plain Road.
2. Following the completion of these roads, Council crews will focus on Fawcetts Plain Road, starting with drainage works, including:
   • Reinstating and cleaning drains
   • Installing new culverts

Council aims to finish the Green Pigeon and Horseshoe Creek Road repairs and start drainage work on Fawcetts Plain Road before Christmas.

Traffic Management

Fawcetts Plain Road will remain open under traffic control during the project to minimise disruption for residents and motorists.

This repair initiative represents a significant step toward restoring safe and reliable infrastructure for the community. Residents are encouraged to remain patient and cautious while the work is underway.

For more information or updates on the project, contact Kyogle Council directly.

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Northern Rivers Election results to date

By Samantha Elley

NSW voted for their council representatives over the weekend and while results aren’t finalised, we have compiled the results so far at time of printing (Monday 16th of September).

Ballina

Residents of the coastal local government area showed they have been happy with the work Sharon Cadwallader has been doing as mayor. She is currently sitting at 45.08% of the vote with her nearest rival, the Greens Kiri Dicker. a long way back at 25.79%

A ward favourites include the Greens Erin Karsten on 20.73%, Independent Damian Loone following closely at 17.35% and ALP’s Maria Marshall on 14.07%, although Independent’s Kevin Loughrey is close on her heels at 13.52%.

B ward has larger margins with Sharon Cadwallader taking 36.12% of the vote then Kiri Dicker, much closer than in the mayoral race at 31.34%. After that the closest candidate is ALP’s Andrew Broadley on 11.65%.

C ward has the Greens Simon Chate leading the chase on 36.21%, followed by Independent Simon Kinny on 28.47% and another Independent These Crollick on 15.12%

Byron

Current mayor Michael Lyon’s recent public issues are reflected in the sad results of his race to get back in the top job, with his mayoral vote hitting a paltry 17.29% compared to Sarah Ndiaye of the Greens who is sitting on 34.71%. However, there is a chance ALP’s Asren Pugh is not discounted yet with 30.37% of the vote.

The Greens also have a chance of strong representation on council as Group D holds 40.22% of votes for their council candidates, followed by the ALP at 27.95%.

Kyogle

While it has been tradition that elected councillors in Kyogle voted for the mayor, residents of this inland local government area had the extra task of deciding in a referendum question, whether or not they wanted a popularly elected mayor and a reduction in the ward numbers or the status quo. Results at time of printing were not available.

A ward’s most popular candidate thus far is Brett McNamara with 31.15% of the vote, followed by Kieran Somerville with 26.67% and long-standing councillor Janet Wilson at 18.40%.

B ward’s winning candidate is currently Olivia Taylor with 34.03%, then current councillor John Burley 25% and Robert Cullen on 19.29%.

In C ward popular councillor and previous mayor Danielle Mulholland holds 40.88% of the vote with Tom Cooper on 21.06% coming second and Robin Harley on 13.63% holding the bronze.

Lismore

There is no doubting the popularity of current mayor Steve Krieg who looks like holding his seat with 48.38% of the vote, trailed by the Greens Vanessa Grindon-Ekins on 21.13%.

The Independent Group A look like, not only getting their mayor back in but will fill a few seats around the council table with 42.39% of votes.

They are followed by the Greens Group D with 26.77% and ALP’s Group B holding 18.77%.

Richmond Valley

It looks like business as usual for the Richmond Valley with mayor Robert Mustow holding a comfortable lead to retain his role on 38.93%. He was given a run for his money by newcomer Lyndall Murray in the early part of counting before she settled around 27.17%.

There should be a mixture of new and old faces on council with Group D, led by the current mayor, Robert Mustow receiving 41.42% of the vote and newcomers, with Lyndall Murray, Group C, second with 25.69%. Group A led by previous Richmond Valley general manager, John Walker obtained a healthy 20.51%.

Tweed

A large number of parties were vying for all council positions with the current group with most votes being the Liberals with 28.74%. ALP are a comfortable second on 14.96% and Independent Group A, led by current mayor, Chris Cherry in third with 13.42%.

To keep up to date with the Northern Rivers Elections Results, click here.

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Meet your Kyogle candidates

By Samantha Elley

The Northern Rivers Times has asked all of the candidates for the September 14 local government elections to introduce themselves to voters identify the issues they want to address and policies they would pursue if elected.

A Ward Kyogle Candidates

Brett McNamara

Brett McNamara brings a professional skill set with 40 years in national parks, local government, and budget management. He is focused on renewal, civic pride, and effective governance. With strong people management skills, he envisions Kyogle as a place for families, creativity, and prosperity. Brett is committed to listening and serving with respect and compassion.

To find out more about Brett McNamara, click here.

Brett McNamara

Kieran Somerville

Kieran Somerville, with credentials in Environmental Management and Regenerative Agriculture, advocates for sustainable development, transparent decision-making, and strong support for farming. He promotes local businesses, arts, culture, and environmental protection. Kieran holds a Bachelor’s in Environmental Management and a Graduate Diploma in Regenerative Agriculture, working as an environmental consultant and farm co-manager.

To find out more about Kieran Somerville, click here.

Douglas Layton

Lives at Kyogle and is retired.

Naomi Worrall

Naomi Worrall has spent two decades working in social housing, from frontline services to government reforms. She recently built a small business focused on baking and growing flowers. With extensive volunteer experience in governance roles, Naomi is dedicated to ensuring efficient and accessible government services and is passionate about serving the Kyogle community.

To find out more about Kieran Somerville, click here.

Janet Wilson

Experience and knowledge with local government, community development and engagement. Strong interest in governance, engagement with residents and other levels of government to achieve best outcomes in the public interest.

To find out more about Janet Wilson, click here.

B Ward Kyogle Candidates

Neil Summerville

A long-time resident of Sextonville, having lived there since 1989, and with family ties to Babyl Creek since 1972, the candidate is motivated by the high maintenance costs of vehicles on rural roads. With over 20 years of boardroom experience, including as deputy chair of Northern Co-op Meat Company, he brings significant leadership experience, including roles as chairman of the NSW Livestock Health and Pest Authority and North East Pest Animal Advisory Committee.

To find out more about Neil Summerville, click here.

Neil Summerville

Glenn Robinson

To find out more about Glenn Robinson, click here.

Glenn Robinson

Robert Cullen

To find out more about Robert Cullen, click here.

Robert Cullen

John Burley

Olivia Taylor

To find out more about Olivia Taylor, click here.

C Ward Kyogle Candidates

Simon Dejoux

To find out more about Simon Dejoux, click here.

Simon Dejoux

Danielle Mulholland

To find out more about Danielle Mulholland, click here.

Danielle Mulholland

Ian Murrell

Ian Murrell, a Kyogle resident since 2016, is running for council to bring fresh perspectives to the democratic process. An ex-clinical nurse and cabinetmaker, Ian values community input and plans to run workshops to understand local concerns. He has been active in community organisations and believes in creating a great place to live and work.

To find out more about Ian Murrell, click here.

Ian Murrell

Thomas Cooper

Thomas Cooper, a 28-year resident of Bonalbo, is running for Ward C to complete major projects like the $50 million Clarence Valley Way upgrade. He emphasises the need for a high-caliber general manager, local economic growth, and infrastructure improvements. Thomas opposes the referendum for a popularly voted mayor, advocating for community-focused governance.

To find out more about Thomas Cooper, click here.

Thomas Cooper

Earle Grundy

Is a non-resident but has been a councillor of Kyogle Shire.

James Murray

Previously a councillor of Kyogle from 2022 – 2024 and lives at Grady’s Creek. He holds a certificate in Agriculture and is a farmer and timber contractor.

Robin Harley

Lives at Kyogle.

 

For more 2024 Local Elections News, click here.