From the Mayors Desk - 17 December 2010
Date: 17-Dec-10
Author: Alison Davey
Council again endorsed the General Manager's restructure plans at the Extra Ordinary Meeting held on 15 December 2010. Miss Lea Rosser will now proceed with the implementation of the endorsed proposal from the commencement of the 2011 Council year.
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Council's Christmas Carols 'Carols in the Park' held recently was a great success with over 1,000 residents enjoying a balmy night and great Christmas music. Many thanks to Anne Whale and Councillor Rachel Main our Musical Directors and Phil Collins our Master of Ceremonies who kept the night running smoothly. Many many thanks to our local talented artists who volunteered their time and who all provided great performances for the enjoyment of everyone ensuring a successful night. Our artists included Cessnock East Public School, Hope Valley Music Team, Jacqui Brown, Tara Naysmith, Tone Shadows Choir, Louise Crosdale and Sarah Lewis. Place in your diaries the 2011's Carols night which is to be held on 8 December 2011.
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Recently, the Sustainable Cessnock Committee and Council in collaboration with Cessnock Chamber submitted a bid to host the 2012 Community Economic Development Conference. There was much excitement when we were advised that the judges had chosen Cessnock as 1 of the 2 finalists. During the two day judging of our region as Mayor I was proud of being able to showcase a number of community economic development projects across the LGA. Importantly we showed collaboration with Chambers from Wollombi - Cessnock - Kurri Kurri and the two Industry Associations Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association and Hunter Valley Wine Country Tourism jointly supporting the bid and engaging with the judges. Last week I was thrilled when it was announced that Cessnock has WON THE BID - this is a win for our City and an opportunity to show the state how we work in partnerships to achieve outcomes for the region.
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On Saturday 11 December I attended the celebration of Kurri Kurri Aquatic Centre's 8th Birthday. For their birthday celebrations many free events were organised during 2 -5 pm and included entry to the pool, workout in the Fitness Centre, inflatable Island Fun, BBQ and many more events. The afternoon was very successful and was enjoyed by many residents.
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It is with pleasure that I announce that Kamahl is our 2011 Australia Day Ambassador and he will also perform many of his greatest hits. Kamahl is the name which, for over four decades, has identified the music and unique voice of a man who is one of the most sensational recording stars in Australian history. Our Australia Day celebrations are to be held on 26 January 2011 at East Cessnock Bowling Club commencing at 9 am. For further information on Australia Day contact Pauline Ross on 49934210.
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Let us look behind us with understanding, before us with faith, and around us with love.
Alison
Brian and I take this opportunity to wish you and yours a blessed Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year and I look forward to working with you in 2011.
Alison & Brian
