Have your say: Dungog’s future starts here Dungog Shire Dungog Shire News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - March 12, 2025 Steph Walsh, Peter Kenyon and Steve Low at a Community Builders event. THE Community Builders Program has been making waves across the Dungog Shire and Stroud over the past 12 months, inspiring residents to think critically about what it means to build a strong and thriving community. The program is now entering its next phase, and locals are invited to take part in shaping the future of their towns through a series of Community Opportunities Workshops (COWs). Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au Facilitated by renowned community development expert Peter Kenyon from Bank of Ideas and sponsored by Rural Aid, these workshops will give residents of Dungog, Clarence Town, Paterson, Vacy, and Stroud a platform to voice their ideas, concerns, and aspirations. Dungog’s Community Opportunities Workshop is set to take place on Thursday, 13 March, from 5:30pm – 9pm in the Dungog RSL Club auditorium. This free event presents a valuable opportunity for the people of Dungog to come together and discuss the town’s current direction while envisioning the future. With key topics such as economic development, tourism, agriculture, the environment, aged care, youth engagement, and decision-making processes on the agenda, the workshop aims to foster a constructive dialogue that will help shape the town’s growth and sustainability. Organisers stress that everyone is welcome to attend – whether a long-time resident, a newcomer, a business owner, an employee, a community group member, a parent, or a young person. The broader the participation, the more comprehensive and representative the vision for Dungog’s future will be. “We want this to be a positive and inclusive conversation,” said a spokesperson for the event. “Your input matters, and this is a fantastic opportunity to be part of something meaningful for our town.” A free light dinner will be provided at the start of the evening. While the event is free to attend, RSVPs are essential for catering purposes. To book your spot, visit TryBooking and search for Dungog Community Opportunities Workshop. By Shannon BENTON Peter Kenyon facilitating the Clarence Town workshop.