Mayoral Column - 27 August 2025

Published on 27 August 2025

Mobile coverage black spots put communities at a significant disadvantage, and Cessnock local government area (LGA) has more than its fair share. These days, many of us rely on our mobile phones for everything from connecting with family and friends, to commerce, education, and wellbeing. Connectivity is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. That’s why I raised the matter at the August council meeting, where my fellow councillors and I resolved to write to federal and state ministers and MPs, and the relevant telecommunications providers, outlining the urgent need to address the lack of digital inclusion in parts of our LGA - like Bucketty and its surrounding communities.

We are also calling for Cessnock LGA to be included in future rounds of the Mobile Black Spot Program and for Bucketty to be prioritised in any future mobile coverage improvement programs. Along with this, I plan to raise the issue of telecommunications infrastructure funding at the Local Government NSW conference in November.

With rapid population growth and an increase in visitors to our region, the lack of coverage is becoming increasingly dangerous. It is not only a barrier to economic participation, but also a significant public safety risk in the event of emergencies such as bushfires, floods or crashes on our roads. Our LGA deserves the same level of digital access as metropolitan areas, and mobile coverage blackspots undermine our ability to attract and support residents, businesses, and tourism.

Meanwhile, it was a thrill recently to see some hard work pay off with wonderful new facilities at Bellbird’s Carmichael Park. The project, proudly funded by the NSW Government, includes a new block of public amenities, shelter with electric barbecues and a picnic area, and connecting pathways to Neville Tomlinson Regional BMX Facility and multipurpose courts. These upgrades support other park improvements delivered over the past 18 months. I encourage you to visit Carmichael Park and see the fantastic new facilities for yourself.

Council will celebrate Biodiversity Month throughout September with a range of free and accessible community events, including tree planting, library story time gatherings, workshops, pub trivia, an ecology walk, and a spotlighting evening. It’s a fantastic program, with something for everyone, and offers a wonderful opportunity for people to get outside, learn new skills, and connect with their community in a welcoming environment. Some events, like spotlighting on 6 September, have limited space, so visit the events page on Council’s website for links to book your spot.

A final reminder that Cessnock STOMP Festival is on this weekend. Get down to the grounds of TAFE NSW Cessnock between 10am and 8pm on Saturday 30 August for an unforgettable day of fine wines, delicious food, live music, and family-friendly fun!