Double Whammy (22 February 2020)

I could hardly believe that people living in the Orara Valley had to cope with flooding last week, so soon after facing the horrors of the recent bushfires. I went out to the Valley as soon as I could to see it for myself and took the opportunity to chat to people I met. I was really impressed with how resilient they are. But I don’t need to tell anyone just how stressful these events have been. Please look out for each other.

There’s lots of assistance available for people who were hit by the bushfires. This is a great website to go to – www.service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/bushfire-customer-care-service

Anyone who needs help with financial matters or other issues after the flooding can call 1800 018 444 or 1800 678 593 to find out more about what help is available.

Countdown is on!

There are just a few more sleeps until the Elton juggernaut rolls into town and the Rocketman himself hits Coffs Harbour. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just enjoy singing along to his hits in the car, I’m sure like me you still can’t quite get your head around having such a massive global superstar in our very own backyard. The international exposure for the Coffs Coast destination, as well as the direct economic benefit to the entire community, is enormous.

All the event info – including transport options – can be found here – www.coffscoast.com.au/ELTONJOHN

Bonville the Star

I’ve already had the pleasure of welcoming the world’s best female golfers to the picturesque Bonville Golf Resort for the Australian Ladies Classic. Sport is a very important sector of our region’s economy and we pride ourselves on the quality and diversity of the sporting facilities we can offer. We are also more than proud of the wonderful landscape in which we are located. It’s rare that we are able to combine the two and give visitors the chance to experience a fantastic sporting event in the heart of the natural beauty that our region enjoys.

Cultural and Civic Space Site to be Cleared

An exciting stage has been reached with the new Cultural and Civic Space after the development application to demolish existing buildings on 23-31 Gordon Street was given the tick.

The Cultural and Civic Space is designed to be a central hub for residents and visitors in Coffs Harbour. The development will house larger and improved cultural facilities including the library, gallery and museum. This welcoming and multipurpose space will also include Council offices, as well as co-working and event spaces for community hire and use.

The Cultural and Civic Space is going to be a key driver in the further development of the city centre, to meet the demands of our increasing population of residents and visitors.

Airport Enterprise Park

Another important innovation designed to help grow the city and region is the Airport Enterprise Park. Work on the construction of the 98-lot development has begun helped by $25m from Council and $10m funding from the Australian Government. The new Enterprise Park will bring new businesses, new opportunities, new families and new jobs into the region.