Mayoral Column - 3 February 2021

Published on 03 February 2021

Our Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony and Australia Day Awards were a wonderful way to kick of 2021 as a community. Invited community members joined us at the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre for the official ceremony and the rest of the community was able to watch via the live stream on Council’s Facebook Page. The ceremony saw us welcome 14 new Australian Citizens and recognise 13 different community members with Australia Day Awards for their contribution to our community. It was great to see so many young people recognised for their work in our community. Their level of contribution and achievements at such a young age is inspiring.

Another congratulations to all award recipients, special recognition to our three major award recipients. Our Citizen of the Year is Glenn Byrnes, our two Senior Citizens of the Year, Les and Jane Goldie and Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Bethany Dwyer. All of these individuals are doing outstanding work.

Congratulations to Robert Blackmore from Kurri Kurri who was recognised as a recipient of an Honorary Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for services to veterans and their families. Robert’s efforts in supporting and advocating for veterans is admirable, stretching over two decades.

Local community organisations are invaluable and to recognise their special place in our community Council is offering financial support in the form of a Rates Subsidy. Local not-for-profit community organisations are eligible to apply for the subsidy of up to 50%.

Applications for the 2021-22 financial year subsidy must be lodged by 19 March 2021. All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their submission by 1 June 2021. Potential applicants should read our Rates Subsidy Policy located on our website and contact Council customer services on 02 4993 4100 prior to lodging an application.

Council looks forward to continue to delivering for its resident with vital improvements and upgrades. Recently Council completed works installing the Abermain Information Bay, which also included the installation of seven new off street parking spots. Council will shortly mark the completion of information bays in Lovedale and Pokolbin. Additionally works have commenced to build the three kilometre shared cycleway between Branxton and Greta. To find out more about this special project that will provide a unique opportunity to honour local service personnel visit the project page on Council’s website.

Another highlight this year will of course be the completion of Bridges Hill Park Playground. It is great to see so many people enjoying the new steps that have been installed, no doubt providing a great and challenging way to stay active. Council will shortly wrap up these works and hold a celebration to mark the completion of the high quality facility.