With 2018 coming to an end we have so much to be thankful for, in spite of the pressure, stress and challenges that the extending drought has placed on our primary producers, businesses and community, however history has shown us that we are a very resilient community.
I am very proud of the way in which so many of our local service groups, individuals and council have rallied together with true country community spirit to fundraise and look after each other. I am also extremely thankful that our economy has diversity that enables us to provide job stability and maintain a stable population. Please join with me as I continue to pray that early 2019 brings us drought-breaking rain.
A special thank you must go to the Gunnedah Ministers Fraternal for their ongoing commitment in hosting the Carols in the Park at Wolseley Park, which was very well attended and enjoyed by all on Friday night.
Carols is a wonderful time for us to remind ourselves of the importance of peace and goodwill, generosity of spirit and the true meaning of Christmas.
Over the last week I had the pleasure of attending many end-of-year school presentations and Christmas functions, I was so pleased to be able to share this special time with proud parents, carers and teachers to acknowledge and celebrate the wonderful achievements of our youth, our leaders of tomorrow.
There are also the many local people who make vast contributions within the community without any real want of recognition. A special thank you to all our volunteers who have contributed so much to those in need this past twelve months, and a huge thank you goes to all those who spend their time volunteering (in any capacity) to make the shire a better place.
I am very proud of the way in which so many of our local service groups, individuals and council have rallied together with true country community spirit to fundraise and look after each other.
- Jamie Chaffey, Gunnedah mayor
I want to acknowledge the enormous impacts our local police, emergency and medical service’s personnel have on the quality of our lives and their work to defend our community throughout the year including the holiday periods. At this time of year I think it is right to reflect on our achievements throughout the year, and what a year it has been with much to report on.
The Memorial Pool Complex Upgrade that opened on Saturday, December 15 is a huge exciting achievement and I want to encourage who are staying in Gunnedah for the festive season to spend time enjoying the new facility with Christmas Day being the only day it is closed.
There have been many significant projects that have received recent funding from all levels of government and will be delivered throughout 2019 and into 2020.
Projects include the second road-over-rail, new koala park and education facility, showground infrastructure and funding to seal Grain Valley Road and Bloomfield Street. Work will continue on the Curlewis Pipeline Water Supply Project and Livvi’s Place Inclusive Playground, and there is much more to come.
For many of us, Christmas means families gathering in Gunnedah or other parts, sharing generously with family and friends, the joys and blessings we have earned during the year. I would like to encourage you to reach out to someone that you know that has been affected by drought and share in the spirit this festive season.
Throughout our shire there will be many opportunities to attend a Christmas church service in the lead-up to and on Christmas Day, and I would like to encourage all to consider attending a service to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
I extend my best wishes to all residents on behalf of my wife (Judy), myself, my fellow councillors and the team of Gunnedah Shire Council and hope that you’re Christmas and New Year holiday period is a safe, happy and peaceful time, such that you are refreshed for the many opportunities and challenges that the year ahead shall provide.
I wish to encourage all residents and visitors who are travelling on our roads to be patient and safe during this very busy holiday period.
