Mayoral Column - Wednesday 4 August

ELECTIONS POSTPONED

Unfortunately we are living through uncertain times, and while last fortnight’s column should have been my last column before the election, I’m back in the saddle again as our election is now scheduled to be held on 4 December 2021.

This means that this Council’s term has now been extended by 15 months, and I thank all Councillors and staff for their endurance and perseverance during this time. I’d especially like to thank all of you – the community – for your understanding and support during these unprecedented events.

While this is a frustrating and difficult time for all of us, the postponement is an important decision in the name of health and safety until the Delta variant of COVID-19 can be brought under control.

EXTENDED COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS

It’s a concerning trend to see the worsening COVID-19 cases in Sydney. Our sympathies and well wishes go out to all those battling this terrible disease and struggling through extended lockdowns.

Our region’s businesses are suffering too. The impact of our winter tourist season being seriously curtailed will be felt for a long time, and livelihoods are very much hanging in the balance.

As I have before, I once again urge our community to support local businesses as much as possible during this time. The providers of goods, services and employment that our region relies on need support from locals to make it through this. Together we will make it through this pandemic.

STROKE WEEK

It’s National Stroke Week from 2-8 August 2021. It’s critically important to learn the signs of stroke before it’s too late – think FAST:

oHas their FACE drooped?

oCan they lift their ARMS?

oIs their SPEECH slurred and do they understand you?

oCall 000, TIME is critical

Time is the major determinant in how well a stroke victim eventually recovers, and in regional settings like ours it’s even more important to act quickly, as response and transport times are much longer than in the cities.

Please tell your friends, family and colleagues about the FAST method. Be prepared, and save a life.

MONARO HIGH LEOS CHANGEOVER DINNER

Last Friday, 30 July 2021, it was my honour to attend the annual Monaro High Leos Club Changeover Dinner.

The youth wing of the perennial and much-loved Lions Club, it is a genuine inspiration to see so many of our region’s young people coming together to serve our community.

CENSUS NEXT WEEK

Tuesday 10 August 2021 is Census Night. The Census project is a critical project for our region, our state and our country. The information gathered informs all levels of government, their policies, their funding, and their planning for the future.

Participation in the Census is mandatory, and this year can be completed online.

Visit https://www.census.abs.gov.au/ or call 1800 512 441.