Snowy Valleys: University of Newcastle Professor to lead council demerger

A “world’s best” approach will decide if a second southern NSW rural council demerges. Find out what’s happening.

A second council demerger in southern NSW has taken a major step forward with an independent probe into the “pros and cons” of the move to be led by a University of Newcastle professor.

The 2016 merger of Tumbarumba and Tumut shires to create Snowy Valleys Council was met with fierce opposition from ratepayers from the outset.

Professor Joseph Drew has been chosen to lead the process that will include face-to-face meetings with ratepayers, councillors and council staff starting next month.

A winery at Tumbarumba in southern NSW.

The probe will also include an independent financial review following the revelation of a $20 million operating loss last financial year.

“My approach is to lay out the facts, the pros and cons of both sides and I will suggest what I think is in the best interest of (the) community based on robust, independent, world’s best work,” Professor Drew said.

Professor Joseph Drew.

“At the end of the day, the decision to proceed with an application to the Minister Local Government to demerge is one for the community and current group of councillors.

“Following the initial meetings with key stakeholders, I will return to Snowy Valleys to present my draft report at two community meetings.”

Wagga Wagga independent MP Dr Joe McGirr.

NSW Local Government Minister Wendy Tuckerman announced neighbouring local government area Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council would be demerged.

NSW elections will be held in March with Tumut located in the Wagga electorate held by independent MP Joe McGirr and Tumbarumba is in the Albury electorate held by Liberal Justin Clancy.