A positive and constructive meeting between Burren Junction residents, Walgett Shire Councillors and senior Council staff on Wednesday, 14 October has provided renewed encouragement for the community as it works towards improving local infrastructure, facilities and services.
The meeting, organised by Burren Progress Inc., brought together community representatives, Mayor Jason Ramien, Councillors and senior Council staff, including Acting General Manager Donna Ausling.
Before the meeting, Council representatives were taken on a bus tour of Burren Junction to see firsthand some of the infrastructure challenges facing the town, including the Sports Precinct, Bore Baths, airstrip and other community facilities.
Burren Progress Inc. welcomed the opportunity for Council representatives to see the issues for themselves and discuss practical solutions with residents.
Progress on Town Improvements
Several improvements are already underway, including the installation of three new bus shelters and plans for a new Burren Junction welcome sign, which Council advised has been ordered and is expected to be installed in late November.
Council also acknowledged the need for additional attention to town maintenance and indicated that opportunities to utilise staff from other areas would be considered.
The ongoing need for a reliable town water supply was recognised as a major priority, with Mayor Ramien indicating he would raise the matter with the Minister for Water.
The proposed upgrade to the pedestrian crossing outside Burren Junction Public School was also discussed. Council confirmed its commitment to the project, although construction remains dependent on securing grant funding. School representatives offered to assist in identifying suitable grants and preparing an application.
Revitalising the Sports Precinct
The future of the Burren Junction Sports Precinct was a major focus of discussions.
Community representatives outlined plans to restore the precinct as a safe, functional and attractive recreational area for local families, sporting groups and school students.
The immediate priority is restoring a reliable bore water supply, which is essential before improvements to the oval, irrigation system and surrounding facilities can proceed.
Discussions also covered the removal of unsafe structures, improvements to the tennis courts, replacement of fencing and the longer-term redevelopment of sporting facilities.
The importance of the precinct to Burren Junction Public School was highlighted, with students currently unable to use the oval for sporting activities because of safety concerns.
Burren Progress Inc. has already been pursuing grant opportunities and will continue working with Council to identify funding and establish a practical pathway towards restoring the precinct.
Swimming Pool Improvements
The condition of the Burren Junction swimming pool fence was also discussed, with community representatives highlighting the importance of maintaining a safe and welcoming facility for local families.
Following consideration of the cost of a complete fence replacement, Council and community representatives discussed more affordable options, including addressing the most deteriorated sections and gates as a priority.
Burren Progress Inc. welcomes the opportunity to explore practical solutions that will help maintain this important community facility while making the best use of available resources.
Bore Baths and Tourism
The Burren Junction Bore Baths, one of the community’s most valued tourism assets, featured prominently in discussions.
Community representatives emphasised the importance of maintaining the facility, preserving its historic artesian bore and ensuring Burren Junction remains an attractive destination for travellers.
The community welcomed Council’s recent decision to extend access to the camping area and newer amenities, including hot showers, until 6 November 2026.
Further discussion centred on opportunities to improve the facility, including ongoing maintenance, future operational arrangements and the potential development of a birdwatching platform overlooking the nearby water storage ponds.
Airstrip and Essential Services
The condition of the Burren Junction airstrip was also raised, particularly its importance for emergency medical access, agricultural aviation and the wider district.
Council acknowledged the need for further investigation, with an opportunity identified for a workshop involving relevant Council staff and local stakeholders.
Following the meeting, Acting General Manager Donna Ausling promptly provided additional information about the relevant Council contact for progressing discussions concerning the airstrip, demonstrating a welcome commitment to following up matters raised by the community.
The proposed heavy vehicle rest area, improvements to local drainage, road maintenance and emergency services infrastructure were also discussed.
Working Together
Burren Progress Inc. Publicity Officer Kate Schwager said the meeting was an encouraging step forward for the community.
“We really appreciated Council representatives taking the time to visit Burren Junction and see firsthand the issues we have been raising.
“Our community is prepared to do its part, whether that means seeking grant funding, organising volunteers or working alongside Council to improve our facilities.
“We know these things won’t happen overnight, but by working together and maintaining good communication, we believe we can achieve a great deal for Burren Junction.”
While many of the larger projects will require substantial funding and further planning, the willingness to discuss the issues openly and investigate practical options was encouraging.
The community also acknowledged the improvements Council has already delivered and the assistance provided by Council staff.
Burren Progress Inc. looks forward to continuing this cooperative approach and working with Walgett Shire Council, local organisations and funding bodies to build a stronger future for Burren Junction.
Burren Progress Inc. – Working together for the future of Burren Junction.