Mayoral Column - 3 July 2024

Published on 03 July 2024

I’m thrilled to share the revitalized Bridges Hill Skatepark is now open for the local community to enjoy. Council successfully secured grant funding from the Department of Regional NSW as part of the Stronger Communities Fund Round 5, with the allocation of funding used to upgrade ramps, rails and bowls, and provide additional seating areas for parents and spectators.

We value our community’s feedback and collaboration on our projects, and it was fantastic to see local skatepark users involved in the design process for the upgrades, through the multi-stage community engagement process.

Speaking of community, NAIDOC week is just around the corner, with celebrations set to run from 7-14 July. The theme for this year is Keep the fire burning! Blak, Loud and Proud, paying tribute to the strength and vitality of First Nations Culture, with a fire symbol  representing connection to Country, to each other and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The annual event is a wonderful way to connect with and learn about First Nations people and their culture, and I encourage everyone to participate in the wide range of fantastic events on offer. To check out the full program, please visit the events page here.

Now dog owners, listen up! We know how important our furry family members are, and far too often do we see beloved family pets picked up by rangers, but not able to be returned home because their owners aren’t able to be identified. Council wants to empower everyone to be responsible pet owners by offering practical solutions for pet identification, to ensure their safe return in case they become lost or separated. That is why we’re hosting a free microchipping session at 1:30pm, Wednesday 8 July at Huntlee Park!  This session is for dogs and puppies only, so if you’re coming along, make sure you keep them on leads or in a carrier throughout the event for the safety and comfort of all attendees.

In other exciting news, as part of our ongoing ‘Support Local’ campaign, Council has a hot air balloon and champagne breakfast for two up for grabs! Throughout July, we are highlighting the amazing local cafes in the Greater Cessnock area, which play a vital role in bringing people together and providing us with our morning cup of joe.

Between 1 – 31 July, we are encouraging residents to show their support to their favourite coffee shops in the Cessnock LGA by posting a photo on social media, tagging the business, and using the hashtag #supportlocalcessnock. One lucky winner will be randomly selected to receive a balloon flight for two, followed by a champagne breakfast at Redsalt Restaurant at Rydges Resort.

For competition terms and conditions and further information, please visit the Advance Greater Cessnock page here.