ACEN Australia has officially opened the first grant round of 2026 for the New England Solar Social Investment Program (SIP). This program is part of a long-term $7 million commitment to the Uralla Shire. If you are part of a local non-profit, sporting club, or community group, this is your chance to secure funding for projects that make Uralla and Bundarra more vibrant and resilient.

Key Dates for the Community:

• Applications Opened: 19 January 2026

• Applications Close: 27 February 2026

• Recipients Announced: March 2026

  Details here: https://tinyurl.com/5xu5ka28

Who Can Apply? Groups within the Uralla Shire, as well as residents in Dangarsleigh, Kellys Plains, and the Anaiwan community. ACEN is particularly looking for projects that focus on community enhancement, education, reconciliation, or the environment.

• The Big Picture: Uralla Shire Council has officially moved into the implementation phase of the "Smart Water" initiative. This isn't just about new dials; it’s about transitioning the entire shire to a digital monitoring network.

• Why Now? The old manual-read meters are reaching the end of their mechanical life. By switching to digital, the Council can identify "invisible" underground leaks that cost the community thousands of dollars in wasted treated water every year.

• Installation Process: Contractors began the physical swap-outs on February 2, 2026. The process takes about 15–20 minutes per property, during which time the water is briefly turned off.

• Data Privacy: The meters use low-power radio frequencies (similar to a garage door opener) to transmit usage data back to a central hub, removing the need for workers to enter private property for manual reads.

• The Deadline: Applications open Feb 16 and usually stay open for 4 weeks. Don't wait for a new PDF, the core rules are consistent.

• The Funding Limit: Most community group grants are capped at $3,000.

• The "Must-Haves": You will need your group’s ABN, a clear project budget, and a brief explanation of how this benefits the Uralla Shire.

• The "Follow-Through" Tip: Once you submit, the Council's internal review can take 6–8 weeks. We recommend following up with the General Manager’s office if you haven't heard back by late April. Email: council@uralla.nsw.gov.au

The Uralla Preschool, a cornerstone of local early childhood education at 5 Hill Street, is proposing a major modernization of its facilities. The plan includes significant alterations and additions to the existing building, focusing on both functional space and aesthetic improvements. Because the preschool sits on Council-owned land, this is a "Public Exhibition" phase where the community is legally entitled to have their say. All public submissions, whether in support of the project or raising concerns must be received by Council by Close of Business on February 15, 2026. Written submissions can be sent via email to the General Manager; simply quoting "DA-61-2025" ensures your feedback is officially filed. Email: council@uralla.nsw.gov.au

A great line-up of stallholders will feature across two incredible days at the Producers, Makers & Creators Expo, showcasing some of the New England’s finest local produce, wine, food, art, and handmade products. Details: https://www.uralla.nsw.gov.au/Community/Community-Events/Seasons-of-New-England-Expo-2026