Batlow United Community Chamber launch

Working towards a shared vision for the community will be the goal of the new Batlow United Community Chamber.

It is now almost a year since the Batlow Recovery Forum, convened by Independent Member for Wagga Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr, along with Resilience NSW and federal Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain, to bring the community together after the 2020 Dunns Road bushfire.

“A tremendous amount of work has been done in the Batlow community since that forum,” Dr McGirr said.

“Arising from that forum, and many subsequent discussions, has been the concept of a united community chamber, which will give Batlow community groups the chance to unite to discuss key local issues and to share information.

“As Batlow continues to rebuild and renew, this is a great opportunity to further bring the community together.”

The meeting to discuss the Batlow United Community Chamber will be held on Sunday, August 8, from 11am to 1pm in the Batlow RSL Club, followed by a light lunch.

Ray Billing, chair of the Batlow Community and Cultural Association (formerly the Batlow Development League), as well as Batlow CiderFest, is urging Batlow residents to attend Sunday’s launch.

“Previous forums have gathered a great deal of data that clearly demonstrates the need and community will for the establishment of the Batlow United Community Chamber,” Mr Billing said.

“Recovery from the devastating Dunns Road bushfire will be ongoing for some time. The Batlow United Community Chamber will be a way to identify emerging recovery needs as we work together to build a resilient community and shape the future for Batlow.”

Many groups and individuals have helped in the work so far.

“I would particularly like to thank Resilience NSW and Kristy McBain for their help and support,” said Dr McGirr.

To register for Sunday’s launch, visit https://bucc.eventbrite.com.au or for more information, call Dr McGirr's office on 6921 1622.

This event will follow COVID Safe guidelines.