As part of its Fit for the Future submission, one of the main financial indicators that the council must address is an extensive infrastructure backlog.

“The railway station is leased by council from John Holland Rail Pty Ltd and we have a sublet agreement with the musician’s guild, but we are responsible for maintaining the property and insurance,” Director of corporate and community services Anna Watt said.

“The building is old and costly to maintain and the maintenance costs will increase considerably over time, creating an unacceptable liability for council and making it more difficult for council to operate sustainably.

“However, I will be recommending council supports the Glen Innes Musicians Guild financially to take over the lease directly with John Holland Rail from October 1.”

Glen Innes Musicians’ Guild president Jeff Manning said the Council’s offer was appreciated and showed commitment to community groups. “If we were to leave the railway station it would be exposed to vandalism and deterioration, which would be a loss for the community as this building does hold a special place in the town’s heart.

“The guild having a room here means that we are not rehearsing right next door to someone and disturbing their peace, here we have never had a noise complaint, so there is a positive from that perspective also.”

The recommendation to support the Glen Innes Musicians’ Guild will be tabled at the council’s September general meeting.