Clarence Valley Council held its monthly Ordinary Council Meeting on Thursday 16 July at the Maclean Council Chambers. Two Mayoral Minutes and one Notice of Motion were considered, and 10 of 21 items were debated, and the other 11 were adopted by consent.
Tender for the operation of community pools
Council and Valley Pool Services Pty Ltd will continue operating the Yamba, Maclean and Glenreagh swimming pools after Councillors supported the officer’s recommendation by consent.
Under Council’s procurement process, tenderers could choose to manage one or more of the facilities. Four tenders were received and assessed. The evaluation considered each tender submission, as well as the option for Council to continue operating the Yamba Community Pool after the current 12‑month interim management arrangement ends.
The evaluation concluded that continued direct management of the Yamba Community Pool by Council was the best value outcome.
For the Maclean Centenary Pool and Glenreagh Swimming Pool, the panel agreed that management will stay with Valley Pool Services Pty Ltd for up to three years with an option to extend for up to a further three years at Council’s discretion.
Councillors note Delivery Program Progress Report – January to June 2026
Councillors were presented with a progress report outlining the progress of the strategies of the Delivery Program over the last six months.
During the reporting period, Council continued to invest in community wellbeing, economic growth, sustainable development and essential infrastructure. Council also strengthened its governance, community engagement and financial management to support positive long-term outcomes for the region.
Looking ahead, the progress report ensures Council will continue to deliver the commitments outlined in the Delivery Program, with a strong focus on financial sustainability, continuous improvement and meeting the changing needs and expectations of the Clarence Valley community.
The Delivery Program and progress reports can be found at www.clarence.nsw.gov.au/Council/Our-performance/Integrated-Planning-and-Reporting/Delivery-Program-20252026-to-20282029
Naming of Maclean Community Precinct
The Maclean Community Precinct building has been officially named after Councillors unanimously adopted the name ‘Biirrinba Regional Arts Centre’.
Clarence Valley residents were invited to suggest names for the centre via the Clarence Conversations website where 62 submissions were received.
From the submissions, there was a strong community interest in names that acknowledge Aboriginal culture and connection to the Clarence River, with many proposing ‘Biirrinba’, the Yaegl word for the Clarence River.
Cultural authority to incorporate Aboriginal language into the facility’s name has been obtained through consultation and engagement with Yaegl Traditional Owners, Yaegl Elders, Biirrinba Coastal Emus Elders, Birrigan Gargle, and the Yaegl Local Aboriginal Land Council.
Council thanks the community for its valuable input during the naming consultation and acknowledges the suggestions that recognised the town’s Scottish heritage and important historical figures. These contributions are appreciated and will be considered in future placemaking initiatives within the precinct.
The new facility is expected to be completed in mid-2027.
Community groups and local events benefit from grant funding
Councillors voted to support 34 community organisations and six eligible events through the Community Initiatives Program and Special Events Sponsorship.
A total of $68,815.58 was allocated to local initiatives that enhance the culture, health, and heritage of the Clarence Valley.
Funding is offered across four categories: cash, rates, fee waivers, and education.
Meanwhile, $50,500 was allocated to six events under the Special Events Sponsorship Program. The Special Events program is anticipated to generate a $7 million economic benefit ($2.3 million from overnight visitation).
Grafton Saleyards Future Managment Options Report
Council has committed to retaining and operating the Grafton Regional Livestock Selling Centre, recognising its importance to the Clarence Valley’s agricultural sector, economy and community.
Following consideration of 18 public submissions, Council adopted the Grafton Saleyards Future Management Options Report and will focus on improving operations, financial transparency and stakeholder engagement to support the facility’s long-term sustainability.
As part of the resolution, Council will establish a Saleyards Stakeholder Group through an Expression of Interest (EOI) process. The General Manager has been authorised to develop the group’s Terms of Reference, with representation from key industry stakeholders.
Council also resolved to delay development of priority capital works until consultation with the newly established stakeholder group has taken place.
The adopted report will be published on Council’s website.
