Thirty-six keen locals spanning in age from 10 to 80 crowded into the former Fire Control Centre and listened, amazed, to stories of small towns from across Australia who had turned their fortunes around through community action.

The presenter, Peter Kenyon from ‘Bank Of I.D.E.A.S.’, is a former WA Senior Australian of The Year and passionate advocate for rural Australia. Peter led the group in a series of café-style conversations examining what Gunning and district want to retain, gain or even leave behind. Once the ideas had been shared and recorded, each person was given seven “votes” in the form of stickers so we could rank or give a value to each idea – in this way it was easy to see which ideas could potentially get traction and be viable for the community to pursue.

The list of ideas will be available to view as soon as they are collated and will be added to GDA’s Draft Strategic Plan. The plan will then be circulated for comment. At the same time, individuals who nominated themselves to take on projects may start asking for input from locals, while relevant feedback for Upper Lachlan Shire Council will also be passed on. Contact Gunning District Association president, Peta Luck, for questions on 0417490095.

Last Sunday, May 6, saw an enthusiastic group of volunteers get to work planting more than 400 trees at the Gunning Golf Club. With the Gunning Lions Club fuelling the group, the work of planting the trees across the already idyllic landscape has left a legacy that will become more apparent as the trees grow.

Gunning Scouts were involved as well as lots of local volunteers, for which a great vote of thanks is in order. It was another demonstration of the strength of the local community supported by Gunning District Landcare in creating sustainable local environments and enhancing what is already an idyllic and attractive landscape.

Flu season looms and Gunning Community Care is able to offer flu vaccination. Anyone under five years, over 65, pregnant or has a chronic illness will qualify for free vaccination with there being a small charge for all others. Please contact medical reception on 4845 1049 to book an appointment.

The service also welcomes registered psychologist Linda Cater BA (Psych) PG Dip Psych. Dip Law and Security Admin MED (Guide. and Couns.) to complement existing counsellor Serena Scarlett. Services will be available once a fortnight and to enquire about services, please contact medical reception on 4845 1049.

A women’s health nurse will be available on Wednesday, May 30, with bookings made through medical reception.