Multiple key motions covered at Dungog Shire Council meeting

DUNGOG Shire Council considered several key matters at its Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday 18 March.

Hunter Water support for advocacy

Mayor Digby Rayward put forward a Mayoral Minute acknowledging and welcoming formal letters of support received from Hunter Water Corporation endorsing Council’s advocacy on two key issues: road recategorisation and improved river health governance.

“The support bolsters Council’s case to the NSW Government for the reclassification of local roads that service critical state infrastructure, including access to Chichester Dam,” Council said in a statement.

“Council will continue to advocate for a fair funding model where roads serving state assets are recognised and funded accordingly.”

Council also resolved to continue advocating for the establishment of a single agency responsible for river health, particularly for the Williams River catchment.

“This approach is aimed at improving coordination, accountability, and long-term water security outcomes for the region,” Council stated.

Tucker Park tree management

Council endorsed a staged management approach for the Eastern Cottonwood (Populus deltoides) trees at John Tucker Park, Paterson, following an independent Tree Risk Assessment.

The assessment identified several trees with structural decline, including risks associated with falling branches in high-use areas.

Council has approved the removal of 24 hazardous trees, and the pruning of 25 trees to reduce immediate safety risks.

Council also committed to undertaking community consultation on the future management and replacement of the Tucker Park trees, and subject to the outcomes, implement a five-to-seven-year cyclical pruning program for retained Poplar trees, and a staged ten to 15-year tree replacement program with improved species diversity and spacing.
Abbotts Flat RV park proposal

Council considered a proposal relating to the development of an RV park from the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia Limited (CMCA) at Abbotts Flat.

Initial discussions with CMCA arose following the LGNSW Local Government Conference and Trade Exhibition attended by the Mayor and General Manager.

Following this event, CMCA submitted an unsolicited proposal to Council outlining potential opportunities for developing an RV facility within the Dungog Local Government Area.

Council has previously undertaken expression of interest (EOI) processes seeking proposals for tourism and visitor infrastructure opportunities within the local government area, including the use of suitable Council-owned land.

According to Council, those processes did not result in any compliant or viable submissions being received.

“Accordingly, the unsolicited proposal received from CMCA represents a potential opportunity to activate Council land for tourism purposes,” Council said in a statement.

“The proposal forms part of broader discussions around tourism infrastructure and opportunities to support visitation and economic activity across the Shire.

“Council’s consideration will focus on ensuring any future development aligns with strategic planning objectives, environmental constraints and impacts, and community expectations.”

Viewing platform proposal

Council has progressed plans to establish a scenic viewing platform aimed at enhancing the visitor experience.

Council noted the results of a community survey undertaken in August 2025, which attracted 68 responses and demonstrated strong support for the initiative.

A total of 82 percent of respondents indicated that viewing platforms are important to the visitor economy, with Bingleburra Road identified as the preferred corridor, receiving 41 percent of first preference responses.

Key priorities identified by the community included panoramic views, accessible parking, clear wayfinding signage, safe road access, accessibility for all users, minimal environmental impact and design that integrates with the natural landscape.

Council also endorsed the appointment of a landscape architect to undertake Stage 1 (Site Assessment) and Stage 2 (Concept Design) for a site along Bingleburra Road.

The project scope will assess multiple potential sites within the corridor to ensure the most suitable location is identified.

A further report will be brought back to Council following completion of the final concept design prior to any decisions on detailed design or construction.

End-of-life practices at the cemetery

Council considered a Notice of Motion from Deputy Mayor Liam Ley regarding the inclusion of emerging end-of-life practices in its Cemetery Policy Review.

“This includes consideration of contemporary burial practices and evolving community expectations, ensuring Council’s policies remain responsive, inclusive, and aligned with best practice,” Council said in a statement.

“Council acknowledged the importance of planning for future cemetery needs while respecting cultural, environmental, and community considerations.”