Former Mayor awarded for outstanding service to Local Government

Published on 03 March 2022

Former Cessnock City Council mayor Bob Pynsent was made an Emeritus Mayor and received an Outstanding Service award at the Local Government Service Awards, held in Sydney, on Tuesday. 

Emeritus Mayor Pynsent’s commitment to the pursuit of excellence for local government was evident through his ongoing service to Cessnock Local Government Area for more than 22 years, Cessnock City Council Mayor Jay Suvaal said. 

“Throughout his service he has maintained a positive ‘can do’ attitude that has resulted in Council attracting grant funding which has delivered significant change for our community,” Mayor Suvaal said. 

“In his last term alone, Council secured $46 million in funding. Facilities like Bridges Hill Park Playground can be attributed to his ongoing commitment to seek opportunities for the Cessnock Local Government Area. 

“Additionally, under his leadership, the Council program of events has grown and there are now many events the community looks forward to each year. Our Seniors Festival is one example that has attracted awards with its exceptional program of events.”

Emeritus Mayor Pynsent served on Cessnock City Council for 22 years, between 1999-2021, including nine years as mayor, between 2012-2021, and two periods as deputy mayor, between 2001-02 and 2004-05.