March 18, 2021

Reconciliation Action Plan a step closer

Gunnedah Shire Council is moving ahead with a Reconciliation Action Plan following the nomination of representatives to the working group and endorsement of terms of reference for the group.

At this week’s Council meeting, Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey was appointed to the Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group. Council is expecting to call for expressions of interest from the community and staff for the remaining positions later this month.

The working group will develop a draft Gunnedah Shire “Innovate” RAP that aligns with Reconciliation Australia’s framework and the Gunnedah Shire Community Strategic Plan.

The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) program was launched by Reconciliation Australia to provide a framework for organisations to support the national reconciliation movement and develop actions and outcomes that contribute to “closing the gap” through the key areas of relationships, respect and opportunity.

The Innovate RAP is designed to support councils to develop specific programs and initiatives that promote reconciliation and build cultural responsiveness. 

ANZAC Day march returns

Gunnedah Shire Council Mayor Jamie Chaffey said Council was pleased to receive a request from the Gunnedah RSL Sub-Branch for road closures for Anzac Day marches and services.

“Last year, because of Covid-19, we were unable to hold the annual events on our calendar,” Cr Chaffey said.

“It was really disappointing we could not pay tribute to those who had served, but it was heartwarming to see our community join the Light up the Dawn initiative with candles at their homes.

“When we saw the health advice had changed and received the application from the Gunnedah RSL Sub-Branch to close roads for the commemorations, I have got to say, we were excited. It would have been devastating if we could not join together as a community to pay our respects two years in a row.

“We look forward to this important day.”

The Anzac Day Dawn service will be held at the Cenotaph at 5.30am, followed by the Anzac Day march at 10.30am. There will also be a dawn service and march at Curlewis.

Caption: The 2019 Gunnedah ANZAC march.

ENDS

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