Mullaley Recreation Ground upgrade: funding request from Warrumbungle Shire Council denied by Gunnedah Shire Council

WSC requested funding from Gunnedah Shire Council to upgrade the Mullaley Recreation Ground, but this caused contention between Gunnedah's councillors.

The grounds fall within WSC's boundary, but the village itself is in the Gunnedah shire.

Some councillors, including Cr Murray O'Keefe, were keen to support the request for a co-contribution, but Cr Owen Hasler argued at Wednesday's ordinary council meeting that they did not know enough about the project to commit funding to it.

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"We have a right to consult with the community before spending money," Cr Hasler said at the meeting.

"We are potentially spending money on a project we haven't heard about before so let's get the project right rather than applying from our hearts.

"There's a fair bit of research to be done before making knee-jerk reactions."

Within the council papers, it was noted that the building proposal would include toilet and shower facilities, disabled toilet access, food preparation and serving area, office area, storage room, and a skillion for extra all-weather areas.

WSC estimated that the project would cost approximately $250,000, with Mullaley community members offering in-kind contributions, such as gravel, site preparation, dismantling old buildings, fencing and general labour.

The majority of councillors voted to deny the request for funds, but agreed to talk with Mullaley residents for further information on the project in order for the upgrade to still potentially begin.

The recreation ground is used for horse events, community cricket days and fundraising events.

Warrumbungle Shire Council was approached for comment but they did not respond in time for publication.