Mayoral Column - 20 November 2024
Published on 20 November 2024
The countdown is officially on – we’re only a month out from Christmas! I’m proud to say it’s been a year packed with one highlight after another, and there’s still more highlights to come. One being our highly anticipated annual Christmas Carols!
Don’t forget to mark your calendars, Council’s much-loved CAROLS IN THE PARK will return this Friday 6th December. It’s set to be another memorable evening including live Christmas carol performances, a selection of food trucks to feed the hungry masses, and a range of market stalls expertly curated by Hunter Events Group, for those on the hunt for thoughtful presents.
Of course, the night would not be complete without a visit from Kris Kringle himself; and, as in years past, the night will culminate in a spectacular 9pm fireworks display that is sure to delight and amaze. Save the date and keep your eyes peeled for more information dropping on Council’s Facebook page!
In the lead up to the festive season, Council is also encouraging residents with the capacity to give to get behind our annual Christmas Gift Appeal and support those doing it tough this Christmas season. We’re accepting new, unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items, which can be dropped off at Council’s Administration Building on Vincent Street, Cessnock, under the Christmas tree. Donations will be accepted until Wednesday 11 December. For health and safety reasons, please ensure all donations are new and unwrapped.
There are also a number of local community organisations residents can donate directly to including; Barkuma Neighbourhood Centre, Carrie’s Place Domestic Violence and Homelessness Service, Samaritans Information and Neighbourhood Centre, We Help Ourselves (WHOS Hunter Region), Kiray Putjung Aboriginal Corporation, Kurri Kurri Community Services, Seventh Day Adventist Church, St Vincent de Paul Cessnock, Kingdom Food Care Weston, Rotary Club Cessnock, Soupz On Cessnock, Hunter Food Relief, Spirit of Giving, and Jodie’s Place.
It’s heart-warming to see so many dedicated organisations spreading kindness and generosity in our region. Together we can ensure our efforts reach even more families and individuals, and help make their Christmas brighter.
In keeping with the season, Council is also inviting local businesses and shoppers to embrace the Christmas spirit with two exciting competitions! Local businesses across our LGA are encouraged to transform their shopfronts with festive decorations, with the top three participants winning a respective $500, $300, or $200 gift card and trophy.
Local shoppers are invited to join the festive fun by visiting the participating businesses with Christmas displays, snapping a selfie or festive photo, and sharing it on social media with the hashtag #SupportLocalCessnock. A $200, $100, and $50 gift card will be awarded to the top three customers who promote their favourite Christmas display on social media.
I look forward to seeing the displays around town!