Also generating lively debate was Prime Minister Rudd’s tax plan for the emissions trading scheme, restoration of rail links and transport issues, as well as water and infrastructure crucial to rural areas.

NSW Nationals leader Andrew Stoner said his party has already started work on a policy to address the Labor Government’s spending and how the Coalition will pull the state back into the black. He added he was confident the Coalition will be the next Government in NSW after the 2011 election due in March.

“From what we are hearing, Orange has many positives going for it at the moment,” he said.

Mr Stoner said the party was aware surrounding areas are facing major challenges such as lack of services, and meeting in Orange was an opportunity for party members to connect with the region.

He said emissions trading was one of the main topics for discussion yesterday afternoon.

“Everyone wants to see a reduction in emissions but we want it done responsibly and not in a way that will just add a tax and create further add-on costs for producers,” he said.