Tweed Shire Council wants South Murwillumbah residents to help decide how their flood-scarred community rebuilds, with expressions of interest now open for a new Community Reference Group.
Establishing the group is the first stage of a broader community consultation program, which begins in September 2026. Council, working in partnership with the NSW Reconstruction Authority, is developing a resilience-focused master plan for the South Murwillumbah buyback precinct, land voluntarily purchased through the Resilient Homes Program following the 2022 floods, along with surrounding land in South Murwillumbah.
The project will deliver two master plans, one for the broader South Murwillumbah locality and another focused on the Railway Station Precinct. Council is seeking 10 to 15 community members to sit on the Community Reference Group and provide feedback throughout the project.
Mayor Chris Cherry said the group would help ensure the future of South Murwillumbah was guided by local knowledge and experience.
“This is a unique opportunity for community members to help shape the future of South Murwillumbah and contribute ideas for a more resilient, connected and vibrant precinct,” Mayor Cherry said.
“We encourage anyone with an interest in the area’s future to put their hand up and get involved.”
“The people of Murwillumbah have lived through the impacts of the 2022 floods and understand this area better than anyone,” said NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin.
“The Community Reference Group will provide an important opportunity for local voices to help guide how this land can be used safely and sustainably for future generations.”
The group will operate in an advisory capacity, providing local knowledge and feedback throughout the project. Members will share aspirations for the area, generate ideas for future land use and management, and provide feedback on draft master plan outcomes. Final decisions will remain the responsibility of council and the Reconstruction Authority.
Members will take part in two facilitated meetings, scheduled for early September 2026 and February 2027, as well as a full-day Enquiry by Design Workshop in October 2026. Meetings will be held in Murwillumbah and are expected to run outside standard business hours, on weekday evenings, where possible.
The master plan will explore opportunities to enhance open space, recreation, environmental outcomes, walking and cycling connections, and broader community amenity, while responding to long-term flood risk and climate change.
Community members who are not selected for the group will still have chances to have their say, with consultation events planned throughout September 2026 and a second round in February 2027 on the draft master plan.
Expressions of interest are open until 5pm on Sunday, 23 August. Those interested in joining are encouraged to review the terms of reference and complete the online application form at the South Murwillumbah Master Plan Community Reference Group page.
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