Mayoral Column - 22 January 2025
Published on 22 January 2025
I hope everyone enjoyed their holiday break with loved ones and I wish a very happy new year to the whole community. It’s shaping up to be another busy year ahead, with many exciting events on the horizon.
Firstly, I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Council staff, SES, first responders, and fellow community members for their tireless efforts in the aftermath of recent storms. In the face of natural disasters such as this, I’m deeply grateful to see everyone band together to work towards recovery and ensure the safety of our community.
I’m looking forward to our annual Australia Day and Citizenship Ceremony, and honouring and celebrating those in our community who have been nominated for their outstanding contributions, and who have gone above and beyond to make a difference. While nominations for the 2025 Awards have now closed, but the ceremony remains a fantastic occasion to gather and celebrate together.
This is also a wonderful moment for the individuals who will take the pledge and officially become Australian citizens. We’re excited to welcome 33 new citizens from countries including Fiji, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, India, Moldova, Russia, United Kingdom, and Nepal. It's a special occasion for these individuals as they embark on this new chapter of their lives in our great country.
I invite everyone to attend this free catered event at the Performance Arts Culture Cessnock at 10am on Sunday 26 January. The ceremony will be joined by Australia Day Ambassador, renowned mental health advocate and speaker Nic Newling. We’ll also be treated to a performance from Tara Naysmith, and a smoking ceremony and traditional First Nations songlines performed by Aboriginal Cultural Immersion. As we continue our focus on inclusive events, I’m pleased that Cindy Brady from Auslan Stage Left will interpret the ceremony for attendees with a hearing impairment.
Make sure to make the most of Australia Day with free pool entry and BBQ lunch at Cessnock and Branxton Pools, and Kurri Kurri Aquatic and Fitness Centre. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats for a fun, sun-safe day!
In other exciting news, if you’ve been thinking about joining the library, now is the perfect time! By signing up for your library card at either Cessnock or Kurri Kurri Library during January and February, you’ll automatically be entered into a draw to win one of three $100 Performance Arts Culture Cessnock (PACC) vouchers. For our regular library goers, we haven’t forgotten you! Simply using your library card during this time and you’ll automatically be entered into the draw for another chance to win a $100 PACC voucher.
Happy 2025 to all!