Our entire community has been under continual pressure since 2016, and has shown remarkable resilience in drought. Our community has shown their genuine strength in not only battling through, but in most cases, growing stronger.

It is through the sheer determination of our farmers, industries, our business owners and our residents that Gunnedah has stayed economically solid, with much to look forward to.

Now, we are again in uncertainty. This pandemic has caused changes to our everyday lives. We need to rethink the way we do business, the way we socialise, the way we show care for other people.

Already in Gunnedah, this is happening. Innovation is underway in all areas of our economy and our community, with stories emerging of people not giving up, but finding ways to make the best of the situation. It is more than encouraging to hear of small businesses offering a new service that meets all the coronavirus guidelines and helps people out at the same time.

Please show compassion and kindness to those who are vulnerable, just making sure they are okay. When you are participating in daily activities like shopping for food, filling up the car with fuel and seeing children to and from school, please remain calm and respectful of each other and remember the social distancing rules.

I'm not making light of this situation. It is an extremely tough time for business, for employees, for employers, for renters, for investors, for those with health difficulties - Our entire community will be affected. All of our community needs to look after their health and that of their families - and where they can, support the businesses that are fighting to make a living. Recognising that we are all in this together will make it easier.

Gunnedah Shire Council's first priority is the health and safety of our community. We are also committed to continuing the essential services we supply, and our coronavirus response strategy provides us with a clear blueprint for making this happen.

We thank the many people who will continue to make life safer and easier - not only our health care professionals, but those who carry out all the daily services we require, those who are still at work to provide you with a cup of coffee or a meal - and all the people who are thinking ahead to make things work for Gunnedah.

Please follow all government and health directives to help us stop the spread of coronavirus and keep your family and community safe.

To find out more about Gunnedah Shire Council services during this time, follow Gunnedah Shire Council on Facebook and visit www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au

For more information about coronavirus, visit or call:

Stay safe.

- Gunnedah shire mayor Jamie Chaffey