Mayor moves to quash Lightning Ridge rumours

The beloved Lightning Ridge bore baths are going nowhere, according to Walgett Shire Council. Photo: Visit NSW

Story: Kristin Murdockkmurdock@outbackradio.com.au

Walgett Shire Mayor Jasen Ramien has moved to reassure Lightning Ridge residents after what he described as a wave of misinformation surrounding a number of council issues, saying rumours about the future of the Bore Baths and other community assets are simply untrue.

Cr Ramien said he had received numerous calls from concerned residents following claims that Council planned to close or relocate the iconic Lightning Ridge Bore Baths.

“Let me be absolutely clear. Nothing could be further from the truth,” he said.

“Council has no intention of closing, removing or relocating the Lightning Ridge Bore Baths.”

Describing the baths as one of the town’s most treasured community assets, Cr Ramien said Council remained committed to their future.

“I use the Bore Baths myself. I know what they mean to local residents, visitors and the wider community, and I am just as passionate as anyone about protecting them for future generations,” he said.

Council has allocated $100,000 in this financial year’s budget for works at the Bore Baths and continues to seek grant funding to substantially improve the facilities.

“The challenge has never been whether Council supports the Bore Baths. The challenge is finding the significant funding required to properly repair, improve, and protect such an important asset over the long term,” he said. […]

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