Inverell has shown the greatest growth in population in the Northern Tablelands over the past five years, according to data collected by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
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Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall said a number of New England North West communities are streaks ahead of the trend across country NSW.
“The biggest mover was the Inverell Shire local government area (LGA) (population of 16,936), with an increase of 460 people over the five year period at a rate of 2.79 per cent,” Mr Marshall said.
“A growing region will attract better services, new employment opportunities and greater investment.”
Some communities have grown quite rapidly, with the electorate returning a growth rate of 1.33 per cent from June 30, 2010, to June 30, 2015; an increase of 1066 residents.
The strong growth figure came as no surprise for Mayor Paul Harmon, who said the LGA had held that position for the last few years. He said council was in the process of catering for more growth and cited the upgrade of the town’s sewerage plant as one good example of council’s forward planning.
The biggest mover was the Inverell Shire local government area (LGA) (population of 16,936), with an increase of 460 people over the five year period at a rate of 2.79 per cent
- Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall
“But the activity in our shire is not just based in Inverell, obviously the majority is, but it is sprinkled right through our shire,” he said.
The statistics follow comments made by TCorp’s head of Local Government services, Kevin Pugh, earlier this month, congratulating the Inverell Shire Council on their patience while securing a $2million loan for the waste management works.
“If other council match the professionalism and friendly collaboration exhibited by your staff, we can look forward to TCorp promptly providing a very positive benefit to local councils in NSW,” Mr Pugh’s letter read.
Mr Marshall said he had an incredibly high opinion of Inverell council.
“Inverell is the best council I deal with. It’s got both good councillors and staff. Paul Henry is one of the most respected general managers in country NSW” Mr Marshall said.
“He has been sought after by other councils. I know in the past he’s been approached by many other councils looking to headhunt him; I know because I was one of them when I was mayor of Gunnedah.”
Mr Marshall said Mr Henry seemed very flattered by the approach, but remained very committed to Inverell council.
