From the Mayor - 27 July 2022
In Greek mythology, Centaurus is a half human half horse creature, but here in Australia, Centaurus is the nickname for the new sub-variant of COVID-19 that has unfortunately found its way onto our shores. Health experts strongly recommend we get our booster shots, continue to wear masks in crowded environments, socialise outdoors and maintain social distancing whenever possible so we all do our very best to limit increased infection rates. Our fantastic frontline health workers are herculean in the way they continue to care for us, and we need to do everything in our power to protect them from total burnout.
If outdoors, I recommend a walk around the recently completed Middle Head – Gubbuh Gubbuh walking track which links to the magnificent Sydney Harbour and the Bondi to Manly scenic walks. On the way, admire the restoration and conservation works undertaken by the Harbour Trust at the 10 Terminal precinct as part of the federal government’s Middle Head Parklands renewal project that is currently underway.
The Australian Government has produced a State of the Environment Report every five years since 1995. The delayed but recently released 2021 report made for devastating reading with our environment in a parlous and deteriorating state. On a positive note, this report is the first to include Indigenous co-authors who shared their knowledge and environmental management skills to empower change, especially in the area of fire management. In November 2019, Council declared a climate emergency and currently has on public exhibition our Draft Climate Action Resilience and Adaptation Strategy, which accompanies our Mitigation Strategy. Both documents are fundamental to providing a long-term community-focused climate action strategy which will guide decision making by Council and your interest, input and feedback will be keenly welcomed until Friday 26 August.
That same night, Friday 26 August, the 75th Mosman Art Prize exhibition will be officially opened by judge, Rhana Devenport ONZM, Director of the Art Gallery of South Australia.
In closing, I offer heartfelt congratulations to Queenwood School Principal, Dr Elizabeth Stone who has been appointed the first female head of Winchester College, UK. This is a history-making appointment to commence mid-2023 and an exceptionally significant professional and personal achievement for Dr Stone.