Both parties agreed that Green Valley Farm is part of the Tingha community and would be part of the land conceded to the Inverell Shire. 

Dr Tiley said that a public forum with Tingha residents last Wednesday had convinced him to make the change.

“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.

“I feel that was a really important thing to do that we give those people to have a say,” Dr Tiley 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. 

“I think it’s fraught with danger with the Boundaries Commission, because they may decide something that is not in the best interest of the Tingha community and that community of interest around the Tingha area,” Cr Harmon said.

Dr Tiley said Green Valley wasn’t given away happily, but “if that’s what the people want - that’s what you try and do”. He said the decision would limit ARC’s ability to raise rates but also reduce road maintenance.

Cr Harmon said the meeting had been held in “the right spirit”, and would be a way forward to achieving the best result possible for the communities involved.

Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall mediated the meeting, and said that he believed the agreements made did reflect the community, and that the Green Valley resolution was an important step forward. 

“I’m really pleased that the discussions went so well and that both councils gave a little bit of ground, really focusing on what’s in the best interest of the Tingha community and the surrounds of Tingha,” he said.