At last night’s Council meeting discussions included the Cook Park Aviary, a tree removal at Orange Anglican Grammar School and a number of small donations.
Here are some key decisions.
Small donations
Council has approved the following small donations:
- $1,500 to The Canobolas Highland Pipe Band Inc to contribute to purchase of additional uniform items for new members and new equipment.
- $2,500 to Housing Plus to contribute to purchase Shop Local vouchers as prizes for fundraising activities at the White Tie Ball.
- $1,000 to Allegri Singers Inc to contribute to the cost for professional vocal soloists for a major choral and orchestral performance in December 2026.
- $2,000 to North West Orange Rural Fire Brigade to contribute to their annual Open Day.
- $1,220 to Orange Woodworkers Men’s Shed Inc to purchase a Sorby sharpening system.
- $2,500 to Rotary Club of Orange Inc to contribute to the cost of running the Orange Sustainable Living Expo.
- $2,500 to Orange Older Women’s Network to contribute to running the Network’s activities and community outreach programs.
- $2,500 to Country Education Foundation of Orange and District to assist Orange school-leavers from disadvantaged backgrounds access further education.
- $2,000 to Gnoo Blas Classic Car Club Orange to support the promotion and delivery of the Wheel Women Event.
- $2,497 to Midnight on Molloy – Halloween Display to contribute to the costs of the event.
Council has approved the following Event Development Funding application:
- $10,000 under the Flagship Event Category for the Orange Chamber Music
- $10,000 under the Visitor Economy Event Category for the Orange Wine Festival and Show 2026
Cook Park Aviary Notice of Recission
Council has voted against a Notice of Rescission relating to the Cook Park Aviary Consultation and Review. The Notice of Rescission was lodged by Councillors who wanted to delay the rehoming of the larger birds. However, Council voted to uphold its original decision to retain and upgrade the Cook Park Aviary. Council will implement the recommendations from the review, including changes to the bird collection, staff training, record-keeping practices, and disease response planning.
OAGS tree
Council has approved a request from Orange Anglican Grammar School to remove the Southern Blue Gum tree known as “Big Bob” from one of the school’s play areas. The decision follows concerns raised by the school about student safety. As part of the approval, six replacement trees will be planted on the school grounds, with species selected in consultation with Council. Timber from the removed tree will also be reused where possible and made available to the community free of charge.
Disability Inclusion Action Plan
Council has adopted the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026-2030. The plan outlines Council’s commitment to improving accessibility, inclusion and participation for people with disability across our communities. It was developed in partnership with Blayney Shire Council and Cabonne Council following community consultation.
