State Matters - 14 September 2026
DISCOVER MORE
THREE community information sessions next week will reveal more about AGL’s proposed Glenbawn Pumped Hydro Energy Storage project.
AGL acquired Upper Hunter Hydro and with it, the project, in May 2025.
AGL is proposing to build, own and operate a pumped hydro energy storage system of approximately 800 MW/10-hour (8 GWh) at Glenbawn Dam.
The project is in its initial investigation phase, which includes studies and site investigations to assess environmental, social and cultural impacts and further develop the project design.
Community information sessions are at Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre on Tuesday 22 September, 11am- 2pm, then on Wednesday 23 September at Gundy Soldiers' Memorial Hall, 7am-10am and Aberdeen (Rose Garden) Hall 3pm-6pm.
Community members are encouraged to register to attend the sessions at:
https://www.agl.com.au/about-agl/operations/glenbawn-pumped-hydro#session or email: MCleary2@agl.com.au
REPORT DRONES
NSW Police Force Rural Crime Prevention Team is seeking information about drone sightings over farms.
Farmers and rural landowners across the state are reporting sightings of drones flying over private properties, including livestock paddocks, machinery sheds, and crop fields.
The Rural Crime Prevention Team suspects there may be more incidents and wants landholders to report them.
Whilst not always sinister, NSW Police would like to know where and when this is occurring.
If you see a drone record the time, location and description of the drone, take photos or videos if safe to do so, then report the incident to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and NSW Police, if you suspect criminal activity or surveillance.
You are advised not to attempt to damage, disable, or interfere with the drone, which is illegal and considered damaging an aircraft under federal law.
Report incidents using CASA's online drone complaints form:
Additionally, anyone with information about suspected criminal activity, such as trespassing or harassment, can report it to your local police station, Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers NSW on 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au
‘WEEKEND’ ARRIVES
The NSW Rural Fire Service’s Get Ready Weekend is this weekend, Saturday 19 September and Sunday 20 September, providing a powerful reminder to prepare your property for the bush fire season.
Bendolba, Glendonbrook and Martindale RFS Brigades are among those holding events where firefighters will answer questions and provide advice on how best to prepare.
During a bush fire, power outages and communications disruptions can affect how you receive emergency information, so don’t rely on just one source, having more ways to receive updates can help you stay safe when conditions change.
Listen to local radio, including ABC Radio, and call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).
When you prepare your property remember to also consider what preparations are required for livestock and companion animals: www.nsw.gov.au/regional-and-primary-industries/climate-and-emergencies/bushfire-and-rural-properties
For more information and to find your nearest Get Ready Weekend event, visit the RFS website: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/news-and-media/get-ready-weekend-2026
JOB DONE
EnergyCo has completed its Hunter Valley to Northern Tablelands aerial survey for the New England Renewable Energy Zone earlier than anticipated.
The work along the one-kilometre wide proposed transmission corridor will enable EnergyCo to better understand the terrain and topological conditions and inform environmental assessment and planning activities for the environmental impact statement.
The aerial survey was undertaken and completed last week when a helicopter traversed the project corridor between Muswellbrook and Armidale.
While the survey was scheduled to take up to 10 days, favourable weather conditions allowed the work to be completed in a single flight.
Landholders and the community have been thanked by EnergyCo for their patience while the flight was carried out.
The aerial imagery and footage captured during the survey will be used solely for project planning, environmental assessment and engineering investigations.
Find further information at: http://energyco.nsw.gov.au/nerez
ON DISPLAY
The State Significant Development Application for stage 2 of the Bowmans Creek Wind Farm proposed for east of Muswellbrook is now on public exhibition.
Up to 21 wind turbines and associated infrastructure are included in the second stage of the Bowmans Creek project.
NSW Planning’s exhibition process allows any individual or organisation to have their say about the proposed development.
The application, environmental impact statement and accompanying documents are on exhibition until Monday 12 October.
You can view the documents online at: www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects/bowmans-creek-wind-farm-stage-2
WATER INFRASTRUCTURE
The NSW Nationals and Liberals have committed $5 billion to guarantee Town Water Security if elected at the March 2027 State Election.
Supplying clean water is one of the most basic responsibilities of government, it is not acceptable in 2026 that towns do not have clean water, so the Coalition will deliver a real solution for regional town water issues.
Under the Liberal and Nationals’ Regional Infrastructure Guarantee, a new fund will be established to replace the previous Safe and Secure Water Program backed by legislation and supported by royalties.
The fund will be split into four streams with a Local Water Utilities Capital Fund for smaller communities, Regional Cities Water Infrastructure and Headworks Fund for larger regional cities, Lifespan Asset Management Fund and an Emergency Measures Assistance Fund.
The Guarantee will also allow councils to expand housing and industrial developments, driving real economic growth in regional NSW.
VETERANS GRANTS
This year’s NSW Veterans Community Grants program is increasing the amount of funding available to individuals and not-for-profit organisations from $100,000 to $205,000.
The program introduces a new Infrastructure and Equipment category to support organisations to improve facilities and equipment that supports veterans and their families.
Eligible organisations can apply for grants of up to $10,000 for minor building repairs, equipment upgrades, lighting improvements, storage solutions, marquees and Automated External Defibrillators.
Up to $3,000 in funding is available for the other three categories including local history heritage and education projects, public commemorative events and commemorative spaces and activities that provide support to members of the state’s Veteran community.
Applications close on Wednesday 11 November with more information and details on how to apply available from: www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/VCGP
EMERGENCYREDI WEEK
Australian Red Cross is raising awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness this week during national EmergencyRedi Week.
The organisation supports people and communities to prepare year-round, by helping build the knowledge, skills and the confidence they need.
From August-December, Australian Red Cross’ work is amplified, with a concentrated push during EmergencyRedi Week to raise awareness of the importance of emergency preparedness and provide practical tools and resources to help people take action to prepare.
Australia Post is delivering Prepare flyers to households encouraging residents to take simple steps to get ready for emergencies.
Having a plan, understanding local risks, and discussing emergency arrangements with family and friends can help people respond quickly and confidently if disaster strikes.
Importantly as part of the plan get packing by building and maintaining an emergency kit.
Download the Australian Red Cross’ GetPrepared app today to create your digital RediPlan:
MUSWELLBROOK HOLIDAY
A half-day public holiday has been confirmed for Muswellbrook on Tuesday 3 November, which is also Melbourne Cup Day.
The NSW Government has officially approved the Muswellbrook Mayor’s Cup Race Day part-day public holiday providing an opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of racing, entertainment and community spirit at Muswellbrook Race Club.
It applies to the Muswellbrook Local Government Area only on Tuesday 3 November between Noon and 6pm.
You are urged to check directly with relevant organisations for details about their operating hours or arrangements because schools, childcare services, businesses and other organisations may have their own arrangements for the afternoon.
For further details check: www.nsw.gov.au/about-nsw/public-holidays/local-public-holidays
STILL WORK TO DO
Twenty-two years after planning began motorists are now driving on the M1 ‘missing link’ between Black Hill and Raymond Terrace.
The vision and commitment of the former Federal Coalition Government and the NSW Nationals and Liberals Government planned, designed and funded the vital piece of infrastructure for the Hunter and NSW.
From 2020, the Coalition Federal Government and NSW Coalition Government made a $2 billion commitment to the project which saw the missing link become a reality.
But the job is not complete with congested and unsafe intersections along the corridor still to be addressed, including at Bucketts Way, Medowie Road, Harrington-Coopernook and Houston Mitchell Drive.
BOARD VACANCY
Expressions of Interest (EOI) are currently being invited from prospective applicants to be considered for appointment as a member of the Board of Harness Racing NSW (HRNSW).
Candidates who possess experience across a range of fields and have an appreciation of the issues affecting the harness racing industry are encouraged to submit an EOI.
Competitive candidates will be required to complete a comprehensive probity assessment to be eligible for appointment and should also familiarise themselves with the requirements of the HRNSW Board Code of Conduct.
A selection panel has been established to assist with the appointment with the selection process to consider EOIs based on merit, taking into account a candidate’s abilities, qualifications experience and personal attributes relevant to the performance of the duties of membership of HRNSW.
Applicants should submit an updated CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience via email to racing.admin@racing.nsw.gov.au with the subject as “Harness Racing NSW Appointment”.
EOIs close Monday 21 September with further information available at:
SAME RULES APPLY
NSW Health has issued a reminder for vape users that the rules for cigarettes also apply to vapes.
Vaping is banned in all areas where smoking is banned includes shopping centres, public swimming pools, public transport including buses and trains as well as train platforms and bus stops, enclosed areas of restaurants, pubs and clubs and commercial outdoor dining areas.
A $300 on the spot fine can be issued for vaping or smoking in a smoke-free area.
No smoking means no vaping - for more information on smoke-free laws, visit: www.health.nsw.gov.au/tobacco/Pages/smoke-free-laws.aspx
For support to quit, visit iCanQuit: www.icanquit.com.au or call the Quitline on 13 78 48.
LLS REQUIRES INPUT
The draft Hunter Local Strategic Delivery Plan 2027–2032 is now out for consultation with landholders, industry, community members and stakeholders across the region asked to have their say.
The plan is important because it will guide the priorities, programs and on-ground activities of Hunter Local Land Services (LLS) over the next five years.
While the LLS has a statewide strategic direction, every region is different, with the Hunter Local Strategic Delivery Plan translating the broader direction into priorities and actions that are relevant to the region.
Hunter LLS Board Chair, Allison Mudford, is encouraging stakeholders to take some time to read the draft plan and provide feedback on whether it reflect a focus on the right areas or if there is something that needs to be considered as the LLS plans for the next five years.
Consultation is open until Tuesday 29 September, by going to:
DIARY NOTE
November is NSW Wine Month with Upper Hunter Electorate wine producers set to showcase our region’s liquid treasures.
Broke Fordwich and Hermitage Road Pokolbin will help build the anticipation for Wine Month at the Hunter Valley Uncorked Balmoral Wine and Food Festival on Sunday 18 October.
The 2026 NSW Wine Awards on 30 October formally kicking off the month-long celebration when the top honours and trophies will be handed out to recognise the years’ best drops.
After that it’s 30 days of events, promotions, dinners and celebrations that wine lovers everywhere are invited to join.
Semillon in the Sun will celebrate the release of 2026 Hunter Valley Semillons with a special Tasting at Thomas Wines on Hermitage Road with Thommo and Dan on Saturday afternoon, 21 November, from midday.
To plan your NSW Wine Month events and to view the full list of what the Upper Hunter industry is doing, check: www.nswwine.com.au/nsw-wine-month-calendar-of-events
Contact:
Email address: upperhunter@parliament.nsw.gov.au;
New Address: 94 John Street Singleton 2330
Postal Address: PO Box 60 Singleton NSW 2330
Ph: 6543 1065
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