Regional Cities New South Wales (RCNSW), Media Release, 19 May 2025

A Regional Cities New South Wales delegation comprising local government leaders from nine municipalities from across the state last week embarked on a two-day tour of the Central West.

The delegation, comprising mayors, general managers and chief executive officers, visited Dubbo, Orange and Bathurst on Wednesday and Thursday.

Regional Cities NSW Deputy Chair and Mayor of Tamworth Regional Council Cr Russell Webb said the visit allowed delegation members to get a deeper insight into the industries, infrastructure and unique attractions in other regions.

“We want to ensure our Regional Cities continue to grow and be great places to live and work, so planning and investment are key,” Cr Webb said.

“Our Regional Cities face similar challenges, such as job vacancies and skills shortages, economic growth, housing availability and supply, and water security. It is important to learn about the successes and experiences in other municipalities and take those insights back home,” Cr Webb said.

“This visit is a unique opportunity for local government leaders to learn from one another,” Cr Webb said.

“It is also a chance for Dubbo, Orange and Bathurst to showcase their public infrastructure projects, unique attractions and industries specific to their region,” Cr Webb said.

“This is also an important opportunity for us all to increase our understanding of the challenges our sister Regional Cities are working through. That deeper understanding allows us to speak with one voice and advocate more strongly to government about the issues that impact us all,” Cr Webb said.

The delegation included representatives from Albury, Armidale, Bathurst, Dubbo, Griffith, Orange, Tamworth, Tweed Heads and Wagga Wagga.

The Regional Cities NSW delegation was in Dubbo on Wednesday. It visited locations including the regional rail facility, the Rural Fire Service Training Facility and the New South Wales Police Force’s Regional Education Training Centre.  

On Thursday, the delegation visited Orange and Bathurst. Its itinerary included stops at the Orange Regional Conservatorium and Planetarium, the Ploughmans Wetlands, a new sporting facility under construction and the site of a new housing development.

In Bathurst, the delegation will visit locations including an art storage facility, the Central Tablelands Collection Facility, the National Motor Racing Museum, and Bathurst Animal Rehoming Centre.