Cr Ferguson said many Blayney residents worked at Electrolux, or were contractors at the factory, so its closure would have a huge impact on their businesses.

“I think this has been a wake-up call for the region. I’d be happy to work with Orange and Cabonne to find a regional solution. It’s in all of our interests,” he said.

“I think it [news of the closure] came as a shock to everybody, but I’ve spoken to the mayor of Orange to offer what support we can give. I’d hate to think any form of colloquialism would get in the way (of finding a solution).

“We can all work to lobby politicians to get them to offer their support.”

Cr Ferguson also wanted to ensure he was included in any further meetings between Orange City Council representatives, member for Orange Andrew Gee and member for Calare John Cobb.

Cabonne mayor Ian Gosper said the closure spelt bad news for his residents. 

“We have a number of Cabonne residents who are employed at Electrolux and we are very concerned about the impact on the closure on their lives and generally on Cabonne’s economy,” he said.

“If we are invited to any future meetings with federal and state government representatives, we certainly would love to participate.

“In the meantime, (Cabonne) council will continue to have discussions about the situation with local federal member John Cobb and state member Andrew Gee.”

tracey.prisk@fairfaxmedia.com.au