A note from Mayor Sally Doyle

The recent Willie Smith’s Mid-Winter Fest reminds me of all the wonderful and unique events we have in the Valley throughout the year. I am proud of our local events and how brilliantly they showcase our piece of paradise. I’d also like to recognise events like the Cygnet Folk Festival that kicks off the year, closely followed by the Taste of the Huon, the Mid-Winter Fest, Dover Sea Fest and finally the Huon Show to end the year. All have different offerings, and all cater to the various interests of our Huon Valley residents. Thank you to the dedicated volunteers who bring these events to life each year. They are truly treasured and we need to ensure they are preserved.

There are also those constant pillars of the community, the ones who have stood the test of time. That includes the Country Women’s Association (CWA) in Huonville, whose freshly baked goods have people queuing at the door. These dedicated ladies knit, make and bake – volunteering their time, knowledge and skills to our community. We need to ensure organisations such as this are around for many years to come.

An incredibly generous Huon Valley resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, recently gifted the Hobart Women’s Shelter a significant block of land in the Valley. It is expected that the shelter will develop and/or reinvest in long term homes for women and children facing homelessness. We have such special people in the Huon Valley, thank you to the anonymous donor for this noble act.

Bendigo Bank has a new Branch Manager, Huon Valley local Brady Jones. Brady grew up in the Huon Valley and it is great to have him back in our community.

Unfortunately, our community has suffered some significant losses recently, and I’d like to send my condolences to the families who have lost loved ones.

Remember, you are not alone. If you or anyone you know needs support, you can click on ‘The Right Place’ button on Council’s website home page, for a full list of services.

Until next time, Sally