The inspector's advice was that if any residents hear any information in a club, pub or wherever, that they should report it to the local detectives as it may show a pattern to solving the problems we have in Cobar.

The detectives' doors are always open. He discussed illegal hunting, drugs and domestic violence.

At the following council meeting, it was agreed that two local horse trainers would share the facilities at Dalton Park.

We also awarded the swimming pool tender to the L&R Group for another three years. It was disappointing that there was a lack of interest in providing submissions for the tender, however council has been happy with the performance of the L&R Group over the last three years.

Council also adopted the road name "Howie's Drive" for the section of road between the Kidman Way and the Cobar Rugby Club.

Deputy mayor councillor Abbott put forward a motion that the mayor and general manager fight any proposed raw water price increases recommended by the Cobar Water Board in response to the NSW government's pressure to cover the full cost of depreciation of the water supply network. Councillor Abbott was of the strong opinion that consumers should not foot the bill, but rather the state government may have to assist.

With regards to the graffiti around our town, I am asking the community if they see this happening in any way could they please inform the police or council.

I strongly believe these young offenders must be identified and perhaps the parents should pay for the cost of removal and clean-up as at the moment it is a cost to ratepayers and these funds are being diverted from other projects and services.

Next week the Local Emergency Management Committee will hold their meeting on Monday and councillors and staff will travel to Tilpa on Wednesday for the Rural Roads Advisory Committee Meeting.

Council staff are this week attending training for the roll out of the new Services NSW activities to be provided by Cobar in coming weeks. The self-service kiosk has been installed adjacent to the RMS Counter and the new services will include births, deaths and marriages and Fair Trading services such as license renewals. This replaces some services previously provided at the court house.

This week Black Oak Minerals received their first stage approval to haul ore from their Mount Boppy site to the mill at Manuka. This gives approval to undertake intersection works on the Barrier Highway at Canbelego. Further approvals are required and the anticipated start date for ore haulage is around September.

Enjoy your week.

Lilliane Brady OAM

Mayor