Media Releases

Urgent Water Restrictions for the township of Moree for 48 hours

Due to urgent emergency works on a distribution water main in Moree, we request all residents to limit their water usage to essential indoor purposes only for the next 48 hours, effective immediately, Monday 20 January 2025. We ask that water not be used for external purposes during this period.

Acting General Manager, Darryl Fitzgerald, emphasised the importance of being mindful of water consumption to preserve water in the reservoir towers for firefighting and other critical indoor needs.

The emergency works will begin on Tuesday 21 January 2025. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, as residents may experience low water pressure during the course of the works.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

2025 Australia Day Award Nominees

Moree Plains Shire Council is excited to announce the incredible individuals nominated for their exceptional contributions to the Moree Plains community for this year’s Australia Day Awards. Join us in celebrating their dedication and achievements on Sunday, 26 January, starting at 8 am at Jellicoe Park, Moree.

A diverse panel of three judges has carefully evaluated the nominees based on predetermined criteria and a point scoring system, ensuring that the selection process is fair and thorough. The announcement of the winners promises to be a moment of excitement and pride for our community, as we recognise those who have gone above and beyond throughout our wonderful Shire.

Council invites you to celebrate the Australia Day Awards!

We encourage everyone to attend this special event, as it’s an opportunity to show our support and appreciation for these outstanding individuals who have made a meaningful impact in our community. Their selfless actions deserve to be acknowledged, and your presence will help us express our collective gratitude.

Best of luck to all the nominees!

Active Leak Detection Project

Council has engaged the contractors ‘Leak Tech’ to conduct water leaking testing as a part of the NSW Government’s $15.5M Regional Leakage Reduction Program.

Property owners may see the contractors around their property; however they will not need to access your property nor cause any disruption to your day to day operations.

Leak Tech will be in the Moree Plains Shire until 28 January 2025.

If you have any queries regarding this matter, please contact Council’s Water Department on (02)67573222 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) Temporary Closure Update

Following the unexpected closure of the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) on Tuesday, 8 January, due to a prohibition order issued by SafeWork NSW, we are working on reopening the facility in the week commencing 20 January 2025.

Council has been working closely with SafeWork NSW to ensure the ongoing operation of the MAAC, despite challenges posed by aging equipment. Unfortunately, the equipment reached the end of its life before we could complete the planned redevelopment of the new plant room.

We are pleased to announce that we have secured the services of Colonial Chemical to assist with the installation of the tank fit-out, pipework, and temperature system.

We apologise for the inconvenience caused to our valued patrons. Please know that in the interest of public safety, we must comply with the improvement notice. We are doing everything possible to reopen the pools as soon as we can. Access to the gym and cafe will remain available.

Image – The Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) entrance.

Our 2025 Australia Day Ambassador

We are thrilled to announce Ms. Linda Sparrow, co-founder and president of Bangalow Koalas, as our 2025 Moree Plains Shire Australia Day Ambassador.

Linda Sparrow is a passionate environmental advocate whose work is helping to safeguard the future of Australia’s iconic koalas. Since founding Bangalow Koalas in 2019, Linda has spearheaded the planting of over 413,000 trees across 150 properties in New South Wales’s Northern Rivers region, with a goal to reach 500,000 trees by the end of 2025. Her mission is to create ‘koala corridors’ that connect fragmented habitats, ensuring a safe and sustainable environment for koalas and other wildlife.

Beyond her environmental work, Linda has united individuals, families, farmers, and community groups—including Indigenous and Landcare organisations—in a collaborative effort that inspires hope and demonstrates the power of collective action. Her dedication has been recognised with numerous accolades, including being named the Australian Geographic Society’s Conservationist of the Year in 2022 and an Australia Day 2024 Local Hero Nominee in New South Wales.

In reflecting on Linda’s impact, Ray Martin described her at the Australian Geographic Society’s Gala Awards 2022 as “someone you’d definitely want alongside you in the trenches.”

We are honoured to welcome Linda Sparrow to Moree Plains Shire as our Australia Day Ambassador, where she will join us in celebrating the spirit of community and resilience.

The Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony will be held 8am, Sunday 26 January 2025 at Jellicoe Park, Moree.

For more information on Australia Day events or to learn more about Linda Sparrow’s incredible work, please contact the Moree Plains Community Development on (02) 6757 3222.

Image - Ms. Linda Sparrow