PLEASE SHARE THIS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Our twin-towns, Rylstone and Kandos, have a rich history as vibrant centres of activity. However, over the years, we have watched vital economic drivers, such as the Cement Works, shut down, leading to a decline in business and a decrease in population. The amalgamation of our local council into the Mid Western Regional Council has posed further challenges, as many residents feel our needs are overshadowed by the priorities of other towns within the council.

We believe it's crucial to continue to invest in Rylstone and Kandos to ensure their status as thriving communities. One simple yet effective way to do this is by installing solar powered decorative lights in our trees, rotunda, and public spaces—similar to the initiative successfully undertaken in Mudgee by the Mid Western Regional Council. These beautiful installations serve as a magnet for tourists, creating a more welcoming environment that encourages visitors to explore and support local businesses.

Additionally, implementing solar lights is both environmentally friendly and cost-effective, presenting no additional burden to our residents or business owners. By using renewable energy solutions, we can ensure that ongoing operational costs remain minimal. We're calling on the Mid Western Regional Council to allocate existing resources and seek external funding or grants in order to achieve this goal without increasing our rates.

By embracing sustainable beautification through solar lighting, we demonstrate our commitment to preserving the character of our towns while stimulating economic growth. Your support in this initiative will not only enhance our local landscape but also lead to increased tourism and community pride.

Let us show that Rylstone and Kandos are worthy of investment and attention by making this transformative change. Support our petition by signing and sharing with your friends, family, and networks. Let's illuminate our path towards revitalisation together.

UPDATE FROM MUDGEE REGIONAL COUNCIL - SHARED WITH PERMISSION. 

Hi Joshua,

I have already led the charge for fairy lights in Kandos and have achieved a budget of 10,000 dollars for their installation in the financial year 2027-2028. A policy review will also be undertaken regarding large plant pots in front of shops in Kandos and Rylstone.

Please bear in mind that the NSW government has reduced grants to our council area by well over 25,000,000 dollars in the financial year ending 2025 and we don’t know by how much we will receive this financial year.

I thank you for highlighting this issue and I fully agree with you.

Kind regards,

Marcus
Councillor Marcus Cornish
Mid-Western Regional Council

WHAT SHOULD HAPPEN NEXT????? 
We'd like Mudgee Regional Council to:
- Bring the installation date forward to this financial year
- Include Rylstone in the installation plans 
- Push forward faster and harder for proposed 'policy review' of the potted plants in Rylstone and Kandos 

If council is concerned about labour costs - then perhaps we organise a working bee. If council is concerned about funding then perhaps we find a local sponsor or sponsor to help us continue the beautifcation of our twin-towns.