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Mixed messages are being read across the Ridge . At one end of town we are witnessing almost a building boom as houses emerge along Fantasia Street.
The commencement of the Lightning Ridge Rural Hospital Services building is imminent and the second stage of the school development has been announced.
The State Government announcement on March 14 of a $419,000 funds boost will see medical staff residences constructed.
School numbers remain stable and vital well planned infrastructure is set to become a reality.
Despite this positive portrayal of a bright future, in stark contrast, businesses are closing their doors, leaving shop-fronts empty and vandalised.
Many have listed their businesses over long periods, unsuccessfully. Spiralling costs of insurance, GST, out-of-town shopping are a few of the reasons businesses are opting to leave whilst others cling on precariously.
All this as Walgett Shire Council recently hosted a visit from the Orana Regional Development Board.
“The objectives of the Board are to promote regional economic development, provide access to NSW Government, involve local Councils in regional economic development, develop leadership in communities, champion major investment projects and to promote key initiatives to improve the business climate, including infrastructure in the Orana Region.”
Such a vital meeting attended by just one business and community leader, Shirley Mitchell.
Lightning Ridge has always prided itself as a self-help community - accepting and mastering the challenge.
Reigniting a spirit of confidence within the business sector is imperative if the image of a vital mining/tourist town is to be restored.
Walgett Shire Council is promoting a number of initiatives including beautification of Walgett and Lightning Ridge.
What plans are in store for Lightning Ridge and how much funding is available?
Moneys earmarked for airport improvements appear to have been shelved. These improvements may have provided a tourism boost!
The construction of the Opal and Fossil Museum, again, would have created inroads into tourism. Has support waned for this venture?
Are we also to let the opportunity to have a Glen Murcutt designed building slip through our fingers? This award winning architect, whose every creation is itself a drawcard was engaged to design a Multi Purpose Centre for the Ridge incorporating local features and products.
Co-ordinating these initiatives, pooling the very best ideas from active community groups such as the Tourist Association, Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, Rodeo Association, Great Goat Race Committee, Beautification Committee, Soroptimists, Opal and Jewellery Design Awards Committee, to name a few; setting goals and lobbying support from each arm of government, will create the turnaround the Ridge seeks. For far too long we have demonstrated our independence.
Rewarding these efforts the Ridge should expect generous funding injections on an equitable basis to ensure economical development, investor confidence and retention of business in the area.
Moving right ahead with infrastructure and “turning back the clock” to create the type of mining community tourists expect to see are keys to future prosperity.
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