Green Valley Farm might soon be a part of the Inverell Shire.
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The regional icon has been included in the land proposed to be conceded to Inverell from the Armidale Regional Council.
The decision was made at a meeting between Armidale Regional Council administrator Ian Tiley and Inverell councillors in Guyra on Monday.
Green Valley Farm co-owner Beryl Stewart said it was welcome news, not just for the fun park but, for the whole community.
“To me it’s common sense prevailing which doesn’t happen very often anymore,” she said.
“We always do our business in Inverell and I’m convinced that the local shopkeepers in Inverell appreciate our business too.”
To me it’s common sense prevailing which doesn’t happen very often anymore.
- Beryl Stewart
Mr Tiley said that it was not difficult to conclude the boundary adjustment to include Green Valley Farm.
“It’s only a small area of land but it was clear at the meeting that that’s what the people wanted,” he said.
“It’s certainly what we’ve been advocating for,” Inverell mayor Paul Harmon said.
“I think it’s been highlighted not only to Dr Tiley, but also to Inverell Council as well; how passionate some people are in that area.”
Inverell has backed down on their proposal to include the Moredum Creek area after feedback from residents east of Tingha, towards Guyra, indicated they would prefer to remain in the ARC area.
Still in question is land to the south west of the Tingha village, from Sandy Creek down to Georges Creek. Around 50 residents living in the small community will be surveyed on their preferred local government area.
“Both councils have agreed that majority rules,” Cr Harmon said. Once the survey is sent out, it will be on exhibition for 28 days. Both councils hope for a swift resolution in order to give identical recommendations to the Minister for Local Government, avoiding a meeting with the NSW Boundaries Commission.
Wing Hing Long Museum volunteer and Tingha resident Rachel Short joins many residents who are waiting for a decision, in the hope a change in council would stop Tingha from being forgotten.
“We’re always on the tail end … we’re right out of their mind,” Ms Short said.