Dear all,

As we are nearing the end of 2025, it is of concern that we are not getting the required support from State or Federal politicians in governments or opposition that is important  to advance the cause of reopening northern rail line from Armidale to Queensland.  We are indeed very disappointed about this.

Each time I write to the federal minister of regional infrastructure she asks me to contact the State minister. When I do so, the State minister wants me to send my concerns and ideas for the STRITP -the team dealing with the preparation of regional transport plan for New England-Northwest. This plan will not be completed until mid to late 2026!  It started in 2024.

It seems the NSW government is engaged in "an eternal planning process" while the people are suffering from the lack of public transpot to go north or south. Even then, there is no guaentee that the tfnsw team responsible will include the extension of train services north of Armidale in the draft plan.

The role of our State MP is also  not satisfactory.  He has not thus far embraced the need for better public transport in Northern Tablelands electorate as an issue and using his position in the parliament to advocate for us to get better transport.

In this context, I am happy to announce that One Nation Senator Sean Bell is planning to visit Armidale on the 14th to meet with rail advocates and gather information.  We have organised two events -one public and another private.  Public event will be at the Armidale station at 10.00am.  Private meeting will be at the Armidale Bowling Club at 11.00am on the 14th. Bent Larkham former One Nation candidate for the seat of New England who received 10 percent of the vote will accompany Senator Bell. 

I encourage you to come to the Amidale rail station car park on the 14th at 10.00am to meet Senator Bell.  Please bring a few friends or family members.