The Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation (RAMJO) has transitioned all of the functions previously undertaken by the former Riverina and Murray Regional Organisation of Councils (RAMROC) and Federation Council wants to be actively involved in the new structure.

RAMROC ceased operation on June 30, 2018. RAMJO has tabled its Statement of Strategic Regional Priorities for the next four years. The document has six key strategic target areas. 

Working groups are being established under each of the six areas. Federation Council has representation on area six: Boost Industry, Workforce and Jobs.

But at council’s monthly meeting on February 19, councillors expressed their desire to be involved in at least two of the other areas: Improve Water Security; Improve Energy Security Affordability.

Cr Fred Longmire immediately suggested council also be represented relating to water and posed the question to Federation Council’s General Manager Adrian Butler: “Has there been any discussion regarding any more representation concerning those six sections?”

Mr Butler acknowledged council’s obvious interest in all six sections – the other three sections relating to transport, communications and health services – and said “council can join in if we wish to but we have to be careful we don’t create more groups which could lead to a cumbersome process (bearing in mind there are 11 member councils).”

He also acknowledged council’s particular interest in water security. “We’ll take on board and get representation on water,” Mr Butler said. Cr Bronwyn Thomas endorsed Cr Longmire’s push for council’s water representation.

Cr Paul Miegel said council also needs some input regarding improved energy security and affordability, emphasising electricity’s necessity to all Federation Council area businesses.   

Comprising such councils as Berrigan Shire Council, Albury City Council, Griffith City Council and Narrandera Shire Council, RAMJO has been proclaimed by the NSW State Government as a Body Corporate under the provisions of the Local Government Act 1993.

The region covers an area of 72,724 square kilometres and has a population of 148,500. Federation Council area covers 5,685kms and has a population of 12,277 as at the 2016 census.

Executive Officer of RAMROC, Ray Stubbs, has retired. His leadership with RAMROC and in the setting up of RAMJO has been described as exemplary by Mr Butler. 

Federation Council resolved to send a letter to Mr Stubbs in appreciation of his work over many years as the RAMROC Executive Officer.