https://newenglandnet.wordpress.com/2023/02/16/political-season-in-northern-tablelands/

Politicians from major and minor political parties are arriving in troves to Northern Tablelands to participate in various community forums. On the 14th there was a forum organised by NSW farmers federation in the Armidale Bowling Club. Panelists included deputy Premier(National) Paul Toole, Shadow agriculture and NSW Minister Mick Vetech(Labor),Mark Banasiak, MLC (Shooters, fishers and farmers party) and Sue Higginson, MLC (Greens). They addressed various issues incluiding REZ, Investments in regions, GP shortage and other issues. Next Tuesday on 21st Dr. Elizabeth Farrelly (independent standing for the NSW Upper hosue) will address the Armidale community by zoom at Armidale Play house(Beardy and Ohio) at 5.15pm.  She will outline her policy platform, including her approach to regional issues and transport, and would be keen to hear from you, the community, on how you believe this should be addressed? A regional rail strategy is of particular significance  to residents of New England/Northern Tablelands because of the lack of direct public transport between Armidale and Queensland border i.e. direct buses or trains. For the last 34 years there have been no trains between these two locations covering towns and villages such as Sunnyside, Bluff Rock, Sandy Flat, Bolivia, Deepwater, Dundee, Glen Innes, Stonehenge, Glencoe, Ben Lomond, Llangothlin, Guyra, Black Mountain, and Dumeresq.

NSW governments have ignored restoration of train services for so long that residents have given up hope of any government coming to their rescue. On top of this, some have created many myths e.g. it will cost too much, it will never happen. During this political season, it is very important for us to put the torch light on visiting politicians and make them accountable on issues like public transport. Residents are going through a lot of suffering due to lack of proper public transport, especially those who are disabled, sick,elderly or unemployed.

You can join face book groups such as 1. Voice of Northern Tablelands 2.Trains back to Guyra and Glen Innes, 3. Trains back to Tenterfield and Wallangarra for more information and discussion of issues pertaining to our region.