Mayoral Column - Wednesday 25 August 2021

Lockdown and mental health

As I write this column we have just learned the lockdown will continue for regional NSW until at least Saturday 28 August 2021, and for Sydney until the end of September – with additional restrictions for hotspot areas. While these measures are necessary the impacts to communities throughout the state are significant.

Businesses are suffering, lives are on hold, friends and families are separated, and parents are once again grappling with the realities and challenges of home schooling. At the same time we’re watching the infection rates continue to increase and the incredibly sad news of lives being lost to this virus. It’s entirely understandable therefore that many of us are struggling and feeling our mental health is suffering.

I would ask everyone to look out for each other and make sure you check in on loved ones and neighbours regularly. And if anyone feels they need extra support please remember there are services available to help. Take a look at the information on the NSW Health website - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/mentalhealth

Exercising in our LGA

Continuing to ensure we all get out and exercise is another way we can help our mental health. While the ski resorts are closed, we are incredibly fortunate to live in a region where so many other options are available for us including Kosciuszko National Park is within our Local Government Area (LGA).

There are a few requirements regarding who can exercise together, which we have detailed on our community page (opposite) so please take a look.

We have over 15,000 Km2 in our LGA to explore – so get out there and enjoy our big skies and fresh air – and don’t forget to stop along the way and support the small businesses in all of our towns and villages.

Thank you

In my column last week I talked about the increase in abuse and bad behaviour directed towards our Council staff in recent months. I am pleased to report that the feedback I have received from staff this week suggests they have experienced more positive interactions. I understand this is a difficult time for everyone and we are striving to answer all enquiries as quickly as possible, however with the Public Health Order requirements this has slowed some processes. I thank you for your continued patience.