Atcheson wrote to the government asking for assistance with establishing a school and other facilities, and for a townsite to be declared.

Lots were surveyed in 1910, and the Aboriginal name of Tulungup (from Teulungup) was proposed, but rejected by the Minister of Lands.

The Minister of Lands then chose the name Nymbupp, but after stiff opposition from the locals eventually Tunney was used.

An agricultural hall was opened in the town in 1913 by A. E. Piesse, in front of a large crowd, including Tunney.

Tunney was presented with a set of pipes and his wife received a tea service from Piesse in recognition of all their contributions to the community, including the use of their house for town meetings.