From the Mayor - 26 July 2023

The ‘Measuring What Matters’ Report, Australia’s first ever national wellbeing framework, was recently released by the Federal Treasurer, Jim Chalmers. One of the indicators used to measure and assess a cohesive community is their rate of volunteering. The proportion of Australians volunteering has decreased since the onset of COVID-19 and that trend was replicated here in Mosman. It is really positive and pleasing to report that our numbers of new volunteers are experiencing a slow but steady uptick and I especially want to mention the 50 volunteers and Council staff who recently trained to become Dementia Friends. I can never thank our volunteers enough for their ‘across the board’ commitment to every age group in our community as well as to our precious environment.

I am looking forward to our community enjoying the return of our much-loved Mosman Markets on Saturday 5 August. The new-look Mosman Square, which will be officially opened during the markets at 10am, will be buzzing with food and craft stalls, music, a brand new children’s playground for our young people to explore and a free sausage sizzle from 11am for everyone to enjoy. I take this opportunity to again thank the small businesses that were impacted by the works for their understanding and patience.

Two of Australia’s most respected senior journalists, Chris Masters and Mike Carlton will both be visiting Barry O’Keefe Library in August to discuss their latest books. Hurry to book a seat, as both events will no doubt sell out very quickly.

At a regional level, as President of the Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils, I am delighted that Cr Darriea Turley AM, the Mayor of Broken Hill and highly respected President of the NSW Local Government Association, will be joining our next Board meeting on 17 August. Cr Turley’s participation and engagement will provide the opportunity for the Board to share concerns and identify opportunities for future collaboration and co-operation.

In closing, my very best wishes go to the students and teachers at Mosman High School who are settling into their wonderful new campus building. I again acknowledge the exemplary leadership and resilience of the Principal, Mrs Susan Wyatt who managed to keep the school going during the extensive building process.