Mayoral Column -14 April 2021

Published on 14 April 2021

At the end of last month we received a surprise, but welcome visit, from the Federal Government’s NSW Senator Perin Davey who announced Council successfully secured $1.6 million in funding for Sandy Creek Road, Quorrobolong under the NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads program. The funding will enable Council to undertake much needed pavement rehabilitation on this busy rural road.

Council celebrated a huge achievement last week with the official opening of the Bridges Hill Park Playground. Despite a bit of rain Councillors, Council staff, federal and state government representatives along with community members gathered to mark the delivery of this spectacular community asset. The park has become a special place for our community to enjoy time with both family and friends outdoors. It is no surprise people are coming from outside our local government area just to experience this space for themselves. It caters to all, whether you are looking to entertain the kids, do some outdoor exercise, or take in the view of the Brokenback Ranges and enjoy a barbeque. Council is extremely proud of the facility and the team that worked on it. Well done!

Council also held the official opening of Paynes Crossing Bridge at Wollombi on Monday following it being delayed due to wet weather. This project is a great example of working collaboratively with a neighbour for the good of the community.  The new $2.44 million bridge, was a joint project with Cessnock City Council and Singleton Council with funding also contributed from the State and Federal Governments.

As we finalise projects is also means we move on to other exciting works. Works have commenced at Cessnock Pool to install a splash pad. The splash pad will have slides, fountains, tipping buckets, soft fall, shade and seating. We cannot wait for this to open in time for the next pool season.  To keep up to date with the project visit the project page.

It is a big week for the young and old in Cessnock. Today marks the start of the Seniors Festival running until 24 April 2021 and on Friday Youth Week kicks off. It will be great to see people out and about together enjoying themselves following a slow social period due to Covid-19.

Next week we as a community will commemorate ANZAC Day. Last year, it was very disappointing we did not have full ANZAC Day commemorations due to COVID-19. This year our local RSL sub-branches have worked tirelessly to ensure services are COVID-safe with plans in place. Please check with your local RSL sub-branch for details.