Murrumbidgee Council, Media Release, 1 July 2024
Murrumbidgee Council is inviting you to contribute your insights, experiences and ideas to how we can improve our region’s drought preparedness into the future.
Preparation of a Western Riverina Regional Drought Resilience Plan (RDRP) has recently commenced. Murrumbidgee Council invites you to attend a workshop or casual drop-in sessions being hosted in our towns to help inform the preparation of a plan that is locally and regionally relevant and that the issues and opportunities that are important to you are represented.
There will be approximately $350,000 in implementation funds for the RDRP over the next 18 months and hence it’s imperative to hear from the Murrumbidgee communities on where to spend the funding and which projects to prioritise.
Murrumbidgee Council Mayor Ruth McRae said we have weathered the harsh impacts of past droughts and know that more will come. This is our chance to share our lived experiences to guide the plan and ensure our views are reflected in this comprehensive new drought plan.
Cr McRae said I urge every member of our community to share their invaluable insights by completing the survey. Your voice is crucial in shaping a future where we are better prepared and stronger.
Sessions include:
- Monday 1 July: Darlington Point – Drop in session at Darlington Point Sports Club from 5:00pm to 7:00pm
- Tuesday 2 July: Coleambally – Workshop at the Muddy Ducks Tapas & Events from 8:30am to 11:00am (free coffee for attendees)
- Tuesday 2 July: Jerilderie – Drop in session at Jerilderie Council Chambers from 1pm to 2:30pm
Western Riverina Regional Drought Resilience survey
If you cannot make it in person to a session, and you have thoughts and ideas you wish to provide, you can contribution via an online community and business survey (see below link) or contact Council offices for a printed copy.
Alternatively, Graeme Milligan, the lead consultant for the Plan is available to discuss your ideas and input this week. Please contact Graeme on 0437 060 019 to discuss.
The Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund is working with the NSW State Government to support regions to develop Regional Drought Resilience Plans. Murrumbidgee Council is part of the Western Riverina consortium with Griffith City Council, Leeton Shire Council, and Narrandera Shire Council tasked with developing a plan that identifies specific and deliverable actions required to prepare for and respond to the impacts of future droughts in the region.