What if you could play it back a couple of days after, or skip to a certain debate you’re interested in? 

There is no doubt people are interested in what happens at the monthly council meetings. The discussions held and decisions made can affect us all.

And there is no doubt Gazette readers are appreciative of the times and places we have livestreamed events that they could not otherwise have seen or attended.

The council has been considerate with a trial of different meeting times, but still, in between home and work, it’s almost impossible for many to get to the chambers.

Upper Lachlan Shire is one of the few NSW councils to not broadcast meetings by audio or video streaming.

There needn’t be much cost to establish it, given the freely available online platforms, such as Facebook.

It’s a public meeting, after all, that could still move into a closed chamber, as and when needed, by switching the broadcast off, in order to cover any legal concerns.

Would some ‘play’ to the camera? Possibly, but not likely any more than they already play to the chamber.

Local government should be transparent, with clear communication. It’s fundamental to democracy, as well as good governance in a publicly funded organisation.

Residents should not be disadvantaged in this just because they can’t attend the meetings in person.

Our community would like to know it is being heard, so hopefully our council is listening.