On Thursday 11 June 2020 the four councils of the Upper Hunter, along with the State Member for the Upper Hunter Michael Johnsen MP, came together to launch the Upper Hunter Region Website, an online communication channel to promote catalyst projects, facilitate partnerships, and build the economic diversification network in the Upper Hunter.

“The Upper Hunter is a strong and thriving community, and this initiative is at the core of the NSW Government’s commitment to support the continued growth of our community and build upon its existing economic strengths,” Mr Johnsen said, who officially launched the site at Hunter Belle Cheese in Muswellbrook. “The Upper Hunter Region website shines a light on achievements and opportunities and demonstrates that the Upper Hunter is a ‘can-do’ economy that is moving forward.”

The launch brought together representatives from the local councils of Upper Hunter Shire, Muswellbrook Shire, Singleton and Dungog Shire, along with representatives from Regional NSW and the Hunter Joint Organisation.

Sue Moore, Mayor of Singleton, noted at the event that “the Upper Hunter Region has always been a resilient community, through severe drought, bushfires, flooding, and now COVID-19, and the partnership between our Local and State Governments through this website will help us to build on that resilience through economic recovery and diversification.”

Mayor of Dungog John Connors, who was also present at the launch noted that, “The ‘Up’ website will help to demonstrate what is already on offer in our region, enhancing the opportunities that are available, and sharing these resources more effectively through coordination and collaboration.”