Council Update

Conversation with the GM

Volunteers Keep Sailability Central West Afloat at Carcoar Dam

Sailability Central West is preparing for another season at Carcoar Dam, continuing its commitment to inclusive sailing opportunities for people of all abilities.

Run by dedicated volunteers, the program offers safe, supported sailing days that help participants get out on the water, build confidence, try something new and connect with others in a welcoming environment.

While some long-serving volunteers are adjusting their involvement due to family, work and personal commitments, the branch remains focused on keeping the program strong. Branch President Gareth Wilson will continue supporting Sailability, while Sophia Johnsen has stepped into the role of Sailing Day Manager, bringing valuable experience working with people of all abilities. Long-time volunteer Kevin Parton will also continue preparing boats ahead of each sailing day.

Proposed sailing dates are 25 October and 22 November 2026, followed by 7 February and 21 March 2027, with all activities subject to weather conditions.

Sailability is about more than sailing. It creates friendship, community connection and opportunities for participants and families to enjoy the outdoors together.

Additional volunteers are needed to help keep sailing days running, from assisting with activities and setting up, to cooking the barbecue or offering a friendly welcome. Every contribution helps keep this important local program afloat.

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club named 2026 Club of the Year – Category B

Australian Sailing has announced Carcoar Dam Sailing Club as the 2026 NSW & ACT Club of the Year – Category B, recognising the club’s strong member commitment, improved facilities, growing training fleet and new instructor pathways.

Nominated alongside outstanding clubs including Hunters Hill Sailing Club, Wallamatagul Land and Saltwater Veterans, CDSC was celebrated for creating affordable and welcoming opportunities for new sailors and helping build a stronger future for sailing in the region.

The award is a proud moment for the inland club, which continues to champion grassroots sailing in the Central West. For Carcoar Dam Sailing Club, sailing is not about having the newest or most expensive high-performance boat. It is about learning the fundamental skills, getting out on the water, building confidence, discovering how much fun sailing can be and making the most of the craft available.

Most importantly, the club is committed to making sailing available to everyone. It is opening the doors of sailing to inland NSW and showing that people do not need to live on the coast to become sailors. Along the way, participants can learn lifelong skills that extend well beyond the water.

The club is inviting the wider sailing community to visit Carcoar Dam, meet its members and juniors, and experience what this small but determined inland sailing club is all about. Visitors are encouraged to bring the family and make a weekend of it in the beautiful Central West.

Winning Club of the Year means a great deal, but the club’s focus remains on the future: helping people learn to sail, getting more people on the water and growing sailing from the grassroots up. Carcoar Dam Sailing Club’s doors are open to all abilities and to anyone keen to have a go.

Council Update

Junction Reefs Reserve Temporary Closure

Please be advised that Junction Reefs Reserve will be temporarily closed to the public from 13 October to 13 November 2026 to allow for scheduled maintenance and rehabilitation works.

The closure is necessary to ensure the safety of visitors, contractors and workers while heavy machinery and construction activities are being undertaken within the reserve.

We appreciate your patience and understanding while these important works are completed. Visitors are encouraged to make alternative arrangements during this period.

For updates and further information please visit Crown Lands or Council’s website.

Central West Local Land Services Strategic Delivery Plans 2027-2032

Central West Local Land Services has opened the Local Land Services Strategic Delivery Plans 2027-2032 for public consultation.

This is an opportunity for landholders, community members, industry groups and local organisations to help shape how Local Land Services delivers programs and services across our region over the next five years.

Consultation closes 29 September 2026.

Find out more and provide your feedback via the NSW Government Have Your Say website.

Position Vacant

Council currently has the following position available:

• Asset Systems Officer (Infrastructure)

Applications close on 30 September 2026.

Please refer to Council’s Employment Opportunities page for an Information Package and details on how to apply for this position.

 

Service NSW Mobile Service Centre Visit – Blayney

The Service NSW Mobile Centre will be in Blayney on Thursday 8 October 2026 located in the carpark at the rear of the Blayney Shire Community Centre from 9.00am to 3.00pm.

This Mobile Service delivers access to essential NSW Government services, including:

• Driver licences, proof of identity documents and photo card applications
• Driver Knowledge Tests
• Working With Children Checks
• NDIS Worker Check
• Applying for birth, death and marriage certificates
• Access more than 70 NSW Government rebates and savings.

For more information, please visit www.service.nsw.gov.au/msc

 

Desexing/Microchipping Program

Did you know Council assists Blayney Shire residents with the cost of microchipping and/or de-sexing companion animals?

The microchipping and de-sexing program includes:

• Free microchipping
• $50 towards the cost of de-sexing of companion animals
• Max two companion animals per person
• Applicants must provide proof of residency within the Blayney Shire  

The program runs from now until all program funds are expended and can only be undertaken at the Blayney Vets. To book your pet in, please contact Blayney Vets at (02) 6368 2264.