WSC Encourages Community to Have Their Say on Fish Passage

Published on 29 May 2025

Walgett Shire Council has welcomed the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s (DCCEEW) revised community consultation dates for the Fish Passage: Reconnecting the Northern Basin Project, following concerns raised by Council and the local community.

Council previously raised concerns about the potential impacts of the project particularly the proposed modifications to the Banarway and Calmundi Weirs which could significantly reduce local water storage during dry periods. Council also highlighted serious issues with the initial consultation process, including inadequate notice and questioned whether key stakeholders such as local Aboriginal groups have been involved.

Council is pleased that DCCEEW has responded to concerns by revising the consultation schedule, with community sessions now planned for late July. Council strongly encourages all residents to attend these sessions and ensure their voices are heard.

Walgett Shire Mayor Jasen Ramien said, “We appreciate that the Department has listened and taken steps to allow more time for community engagement. This issue has real consequences for our communities and region, and it's vital that people turn up, ask questions and help shape the outcomes.”

Council also wants to highlight the importance of the Regional Communities (Consultation Standards) Act 2024, introduced by Roy Butler MP, which sets minimum standards for government consultation in rural and regional areas.

“This legislation is vital for our region,” said Interim General Manager Andrew Brown. “It highlights the challenges faced by communities like Walgett Shire, where connectivity is limited, distances between towns can make it difficult to attend and information does not always reach people through traditional channels. It’s critical that government agencies go beyond box-ticking and engage with the community in a genuine and accessible way.”

While Council remains concerned about the potential impacts of the project on water security, it is committed to working constructively with the Department to ensure future engagement is transparent and inclusive.

Council will continue to keep the community informed about upcoming consultation opportunities and will work with DCCEEW to ensure residents are aware of the project and its potential impacts.

Media Contact
Sherisse Fensom
Manager Communications and Corporate Reporting
comms@walgett.nsw.gov.au
02 6828 6116