Mayoral Column - 4 December 2024
Published on 04 December 2024
Our annual Native Plant Giveaway held last month was once again a huge success, and we loved seeing so many residents attend the much-loved, eco-friendly event, ready to add a touch of greenery to their homes and gardens!
All 300 free tickets were snapped up between the Cessnock and Kurri Kurri locations, and the collection process was fast and smooth. If you missed out this year, don’t worry! Keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates about future giveaways and events.
Speaking of Council initiatives back for another year, SwimVAC is returning this summer. In exciting news the program will now be offered at Branxton as well as Cessnock pool.
Royal Life Saving’s SwimVAC Intensive Learn to Swim program is a fun and beneficial Swimming and Water Safety holiday program delivered over 5 or 10 days of intensive swimming lessons.
Being able to swim is a vital skill, so it’s fantastic that both Cessnock and Branxton Pools are hosting these swimming intensives that will cover pre, primary and early high school age children of all swimming ability levels.
The nationally accredited program will run on weekdays between 13 – 24 January 2025, with a range of flexible classes to suit any child’s needs and level of swimming experience. Bookings are essential and open now, and I encourage residents to take advantage of this opportunity and book your spot today by visiting http://www.drowningprevention.org.au/swimvac and clicking ‘book now’.
On a unique note, you might have heard that Council is offering a rare opportunity to own a slice of the Hunter’s history, with expressions of interest for future use of the former Richmond Main Colliery site now open.
The Richmond Main Colliery site has a long history serving the local community, through both mining and power generation, and more recently as a means of remembering our history, and I would love to see a continuation of that community benefit.
I’m looking forward to seeing strong proposals during the expressions of interest phase, and working with the successful proponent to realise their vision for the site.
Expressions of interest are open until February 25, 2025. For more information, visit www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/Future-Use-EOI-Richmond-Main
In other exciting news, Council has completed construction of the new Avery’s Rise Park in Heddon Greta, with the installation of a shade sail marking the official completion of the project last month. The playspace features an accessible spinner, double bay swing, multi-play unit featuring a turbo slide, rope net, and other features designed to promote active play and social interaction.
I’m confident the vibrant new playspace will provide a wonderful experience for residents, and I personally look forward to seeing my own family enjoying this fantastic facility!