Villages and Rural.
The Bathurst region hosts nine rural villages with surrounding settlements and farmland that provide opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the incredible rural lifestyle of the area.
Incentives for businesses to explore opportunities in these villages should be prioritised, helping add to the vibrant fabric of our beloved outer localities.
The enhancement of villages also makes a big difference to those living on the land.
Farming in Bathurst.
Rural landholders may make up a smaller volume of voters in our region but they occupy a significantly larger area of land, and contribute immensely to our local economy through primary production.
Producers also use a council’s services and resources differently to ratepayers that live in the city - which needs to be considered when making infrastructure decisions in localities outside of the CBD.
Balanced Bathurst believes that landholders need more representation on our local council.
Our vibrant Villages
Each village and rural settlement has rich history and its own identity - linked to our pastoral, grazing and mining heritage.
Whether it’s for their respective aesthetic, scientific, historic or social values, our villages are often of state and national significance - worth preserving for future generations of Australians.
A high level of village and rural amenity is essential for each location. Council should endeavour to; enhance community facilities, support viable business and tourism opportunities, ensure adequate access to transport and services and frequently strategise for growth in these communities.
