From the Mayor - 27 September 2023
History does indeed await us on 14 October when all eligible Australians will imprint their vote into both our nation’s ongoing story and our national psyche as well as play a pivotal role in determining how Australia is viewed by the international community.
Very recently, Council became aware of a 2009 Aboriginal Land Claim on a parcel of land at Balmoral Beach and has submitted to the Minister for Lands and Property Stephen Kamper a reasoned and fair response outlining the land has been in public use well before 2009 and continues to be a culturally respected and cared for public space. It is important for the community to know that the confidentiality that first applied to the matter came from the State Government and not Council. Thankfully, the restriction was lifted and it was debated in public. It is also important to know that Council remains committed to ensuring all Crown Lands under our care and control continues to be available for public access and use and is hopeful the determination on this claim will be swift and final.
As always, Mosman Council endeavours to best look after the diverse interests of our community and remains steadfast and willing to tackle important social issues in the spirit of compassion and transparency. I urge all residents to remain kind and respectful over the final weeks leading up to the Referendum, drawing on our long-standing tradition of healthy debate. Council will continue to stand by the democratic tradition of listening to members of our community and giving our community a voice.
Turning to other events, congratulations to the winner of 2023 Mosman Art Prize David Griggs, emerging talent Heath Nock and all the award winners and finalists. The field was outstanding and the exhibition is well worth a visit to the Mosman Art Gallery where works are on show until 29 October.
We are also looking forward to the upcoming Festival of Mosman. There is much to celebrate and share with so many wonderful activities on offer for all ages and I encourage all residents to participate – visit festivalofmosman.net for all the details and booking links.
In closing, I wish all our HSC and IB students good luck in the upcoming exams.