Forbes-based LLS staff have now all moved back into the revamped building, which was undergoing renovations to bring all LLS staff under one roof.

The formation of LLS at the beginning of 2014 saw staff from the Lachlan Catchment Management Authority (CMA) and Lachlan Livestock Health and Pest Authority (LHPA) come under the one banner.

However, with the separate services previously operating out of two different buildings - Lachlan CMA at 2 Sherriff Street and Lachlan LHPA at 46 Sherriff Street - a renovation process was undertaken to accommodate the expanded workforce in one permanent location.

While the renovations at 46 Sherriff Street were taking place, all staff of the former Lachlan LHPA moved to 2 Sherriff Street.

Central West LLS chairman Thomas Gavel said the joining together of staff under one roof will greatly improve services with internal knowledge and understanding having increased considerably. 

He was also very impressed with the changes to the building.

“I think it’s very good,” Mr Gavel said.

“I couldn’t see how they were going to fit everyone into the old building.

“It lifts the whole vibe of the organisation if you can fit everyone into one office.

“This will allow the local landholders and clients to access all the information they require and is going to be very advantageous to the local community, clients and local land services. You’ll be able to deliver much better and LLS in the central west will now improve.”

Most of the renovations to the building were internal to make it more open and to bring certain roles together in specific sections of the office.

Acting general manager Andrew Mulligan said he’s really happy with the renovated building.

“It’s exciting to bring the team together and we look forward to being able to utilise it,” he said.

The NSW government provided $500,000 for the refurbishment, which Mr Gee said is a great investment.

“Five hundred thousand dollars plus is a substantial investment but an important investment and I think it shows the commitment of the NSW government to supporting agriculture,” he said.

“This is a wonderful day for Forbes with the opening of this new office.”

Mr Gee recognised the importance of LLS in supporting agriculture in NSW.

“One thing we still do very well in NSW and Australia, particularly in this part of the world, is agriculture and agricultural production,” he said.

“We still need to have an economy based on agricultural production if we still want to have a wealthy country.

“I want to thank each of you for the contribution you make to the economic life, not only of Forbes but NSW.

“This office plays an integral role in supporting agricultural production in Forbes. 

“Your work is valued and is important.”