Bellingen Shire Launches ShireSpeaks Sessions to Foster Open Dialogue

Published on 08 December 2023

Bellingen Shire residents are invited to actively engage with their local government at the ShireSpeaks Sessions, a series of planned listening posts designed to provide an informal platform for community members to connect with Councillors and staff. The initiative reflects the Council's commitment to open and transparent engagement as outlined in its 2022/26 Delivery Program.

The first of these sessions will take place in Urunga, with the event scheduled for Friday 15 December, 2023, from 10 am to 12 pm at the Morgo Street Reserve (entry to the Boardwalk). Residents are encouraged to drop in at their convenience during this time frame to share ideas, discuss local projects, and connect with Council representatives.

Bellingen Shire Mayor, Cr Steve Allan, expressed enthusiasm about the community-driven initiative, stating, "The ShireSpeaks Sessions are designed to provide an informal, relaxed opportunity for the community to meet with Councillors and staff to exchange information and ideas."

Acknowledging the diverse preferences of community members for engagement, Cr Allan continued, "Our 2022/26 Delivery Program makes a commitment to facilitate inclusive community consultation and stakeholder engagement, recognising that many community members prefer not to attend formal meetings or appointments. The ShireSpeaks Sessions aim to provide a more relaxed setting for residents to feel comfortable dropping in and sharing their ideas."

The first listening post in Urunga on December 15 is just the beginning, as the Council plans to host a series of these drop-in sessions over the next 12 months in various locations across the Shire. This strategic approach ensures accessibility for the entire community, allowing residents from different areas to actively participate in shaping the future of their town.

Mayor Allan concluded, "There is no need to RSVP; simply come down and share your ideas. This could be on improvements for the Shire ideas on current and future services, or simply to touch base and connect with Council."