Speaking at last Thursday’s Council Finance and Policy Committee meeting, Cr Yench urged the council to establish a sub-committee to pursue the project.

Cr Yench said Cobar’s mining industry and its future potential dictated the need for a natural gas supply.

“We should be looking at some form of smelter or treatment plant to encourage the processing of lower grade ore,” he said.

“The three mines in production are mixing lower and higher grade ores to get a better extraction and make the transport of the ore more cost effective.

“We also need to get letters of support from mining and exploration companies – including iron ore and silver.

“There is future potential for gold at Nymagee, Shuttle and Mt Hope.

“We should set a date (for the committee to meet) and get as much support as possible.”

During the meeting Cr Yench also urged the council to be more pro-active in its future submissions for federal and state government funding.

Cobar council, he said, should be out taking submissions and chasing funds personally not sitting in a room and waiting for something to happen.

“I’ve been on council 27 years, have led delegations to Canberra and received $30 million to seal the Kidman Way - not be sitting in an office.

“We must take every opportunity and press hard for funding – other towns are receiving a $1million or more – our fault is not getting down there and getting things done.

“Cobar should be more forceful.”

In reply, Mayor Brady said she always speaks directly to relevant ministers and campaigns vigorously for Cobar.

“I try everyday to obtain money for Cobar,” she said.

“Funding submissions now have to be sent online and followed up with a phone call and then if possible, personal representations.”

Council resolved to form a sub-committee and the inaugural meeting is scheduled for the first week in July.