This week's Minute with Mayor McKibbin

November 20, 2025

The week of 10 November 2025 was dominated by meetings of the Central West Joint Organisation and Country Mayors Association. These meetings provided the opportunity to hear from and ask questions of State Government Ministers. The Minster for Local Government, Ron Hoenig, was asked about the Code of Conduct which is being amended by the Government and deals with how Councillors should conduct themselves. The document is still some time away with the Minister stating he was trying to balance the right to free speech with issues involving Councillor Conduct.

The Minister for Environment, Penny Sharpe, was asked about decommissioning bonds/guarantees for renewable companies. Some proponents are stating these should only be lodged 5 years before end of the last term. In many cases this is the initial term of 35 years plus two options of 35 years: a total of 105 years with the decommissioning bond being put in place at year 100. If at year 99 the renewables company goes into liquidation there is nothing to pay for decommissioning. It was stated to the Minister that even though these renewable projects are located in pine forests or on private land Councils and State Governments will be held responsible for these derelict and rusting structures that will become an eyesore and a potential danger to neighbours and the community following the conclusion of their useful life. The Mining Act requires money for rehabilitation to be lodged prior to any mining commencing. Hence the Government needs to legislate that bank guarantees be put in place from construction of a renewables project and escalated for materials and labour costs through the project term.

The Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, was asked about what actions the Government was taking in response to the Biosecurity Commissioners report issued in August 2025. The Minister indicated the Governments response was that greater certainty with four year funding and the establishment of Statewide Biosecurity Compliance and Enforcement framework.

The Premier presented to the Country Mayors Association on Friday and reiterated that with the close down of Bayswater, Vales Point and Point Piper it was crucial that the roll out of renewable energy projects continue at a rapid pace to keep the lights and power on. Only the life of Eraring Coal power Station had been extended and only until 2029. The Government makes no apologies for pushing these projects with the State approvals process as without these renewable projects the Government would not be able to meet the electricity needs of NSW.

The Oberon Outdoor Festival continues throughout November 2025. The Oberon Redfin Round-up Fishing Competition will be held on 29 and 30 November. The event welcomes anglers of all ages and skill levels to Lake Oberon. Expect an array of prizes for the largest catch, biggest bag, age categories, and lucky door prizes. Demonstrations from participating sponsors, BBQ and refreshments available all weekend. Camping is Free.

Clr Andrew McKibbin

Oberon Mayor