Georges River Council - Mayoral Column

Mayoral Column

Mayoral Column - Culture in Colour: Celebrates Young Creatives at the Mayoral Art Competition Exhibition

Published: 12/06/2026
Last Monday, I had the great pleasure of attending the opening of the Culture in Colour: Mayoral Art Competition at Hurstville Library. It was a joy to be a part of such an inspiring showcase of the many cultures that enrich our Georges River Community.
Mayoral Column - The importance of preserving our tree canopies

Published: 05/06/2026
Georges River is home to not just our residents, but also the environment that surrounds us. We are fortunate to live in an area that contains rich greenery and diverse ecosystems. That is why it is worrying when damage is done to our natural environment.
Mayoral Column - Celebrating a Welcoming Community for All

Published: 29/05/2026
June marks Pride Month, a time to celebrate the rich diversity that shapes Georges River. All our residents deserve to feel included and supported in the place they live.
Mayoral Column - Standing All In Together: Recognising National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week 2026

Published: 22/05/2026
Every year, National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week invite us to reflect, listen, and stand together. As we mark these important days from 26 May to 3 June, I encourage everyone to learn how we can contribute to reconciliation in our daily lives.
Mayoral Column - National Road Safety Week 2026: Working Together for Safer Roads

Published: 15/05/2026
Georges River Council is committed to building a community that practices road safety. From Sunday 17 May until Sunday 24 May, I encourage everyone to take part in National Road Safety Week and make the pledge to “Drive so Others Survive!”
Mayoral Column - Reflecting on the St George Candlelight Vigil 2026

Published: 08/05/2026
On Wednesday, I had the privilege of standing with our community at the St George Candlelight Vigil. Each year, we join the St George Domestic Violence Committee to recognise National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day.
Mayoral Column - Council’s Eurovision Live Broadcast Party: Bringing Our Diverse Community Together

Published: 01/05/2026
Are you ready to sing your hearts out Georges River? Australia’s biggest live Eurovision party is back for its seventh year! We’re thrilled to welcome everyone to Marana Auditorium on Sunday, 17 May 2026.
Mayoral Column - ANZAC Day 2026: Remembering Service, Sacrifice and Community

Published: 24/04/2026
ANZAC Day is a time for quiet reflection. It invites us to pause, remember and give thanks to those who have served our country, and to the families and communities who carried that service with them across generations. This year, I will attend the dawn service at Hurstville Memorial Square, hosted by the South Hurstville RSL
Mayoral Column - Good Governance in the Georges River Community

Published: 17/04/2026
Georges River Council makes fair and transparent decisions. It shows how the community can have a say through consultations, online tools, and public forums. Good governance helps build trust, accountability, and confidence in how Council works for the community.
Mayoral Column - GRYFest 2026: A Celebration of Youth, Creativity and Community

Published: 09/04/2026
As part of NSW Youth Week this April, I’m happy to share the return of Georges River Youth Festival (GRYFest).
Mayoral Column - Coming Together This Easter and School Holiday Season

Published: 03/04/2026
As we move into the start of April, I’d like to wish everyone in our community a happy Easter and restful beginning to the school holidays.
Mayoral Column - Introducing Hurstville’s Monthly Night Markets

Published: 27/03/2026
I’m pleased to share the latest addition to Georges River’s night-time economy: The Hurstville Night Markets. Every month, residents and visitors will be able to enjoy a diverse mix of food vendors, retail stalls, and experiences that bring new energy and life to the Hurstville precinct after dark.
Mayoral Column - Neighbour Day 2026: A Shared Commitment to a More Connected Community

Published: 20/03/2026
As we approach the end of March, I am reminded of how fortunate we are to live in a community where kindness and connection are part of everyday life. Neighbour Day, held this year on Sunday 29 March 2026, is Australia’s annual celebration of these connections.
Mayoral Column - United Together for Harmony Week 2026

Published: 13/03/2026
Harmony Week is just around the corner, and I’m excited to invite you to join us from 16 to 22 March as we celebrate the cultures and people who make our area so vibrant.
Mayoral Column - Balancing the Scales: Reflecting on International Women’s Day

Published: 05/03/2026
I want to recognise the importance of this day in our community and why the work for equality continues to matter so deeply. This year’s theme, “Balance the Scales”, is a reminder that every woman and girl deserves safety, fairness, and the freedom to shape her own life.
Mayoral Column - Celebrating Pride and Community this Mardi Gras

Published: 27/02/2026
I am proud to acknowledge the 2026 Mardi Gras Festival as an important celebration for LGBTQIA+ community members across Georges River. Mardi Gras continues to remind us of the importance of respect, visibility and belonging for everyone in our community.
Mayoral Column - Register for Clean Up Australia Day 2026

Published: 20/02/2026
Keeping Georges River beautiful is a community effort and Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday 1 March 2026 is the perfect way to get involved.
Mayoral Column - An invitation to celebrate Year of The Horse as a community

Published: 13/02/2026
I invite our whole community to celebrate the Georges River Council Lunar New Year Festival 2026. This event is one of the most vibrant and cherished on our calendar. This tradition brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate in unity.
Mayoral Column - Improving Community Participation in Council Meetings for 2026

Published: 06/02/2026
At Georges River Council, our community is at the heart of everything we do. We want our residents to feel informed, included and confident taking part in local decision-making. To support this, Council has adopted the Code of Meeting Practice 2025, which is aligned with the Model Code of Meeting Practice (Model Code) issued by the Office of Local Government.
Mayoral Column - Celebrating Service and Community Spirit with our 2026 Australia Day Awards

Published: 30/01/2026
Every year, Georges River Council holds the Australia Day Awards. The event honours those who serve the community and strengthen local ties.
Mayoral Column - Australia Day 2026: Reflection and Connection

Published: 23/01/2026
As we approach Australia Day, I would like to warmly invite everyone in Georges River to join us in reflection, connection, and celebration.
Mayoral Column - Looking Ahead Together in 2026

Published: 16/01/2026
As we look forward to the year ahead, 2026 is a year for community and social cohesion.
Mayoral Column - Celebrating the Holiday Season and Welcoming the New Year

Published: 12/12/2025
As we approach the end of another year, I’d like to wish our community a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a wonderful New Year!
Mayoral Column - Celebrating Ability and Inclusion in Georges River

Published: 05/12/2025
On 3 December, we celebrated International Day of People with Disability. This United Nations initiative boosts awareness, builds understanding, and promotes inclusion for people with disabilities.
Mayoral Column - Standing Together Against Domestic and Family Violence

Published: 28/11/2025
On Friday, 21 November, I joined hundreds of community members for the annual NO Domestic Violence Walk. We came together to stand against violence toward women and children.
Mayoral Column - Have Your Say on our Community Engagement Strategy

Published: 21/11/2025
One of the most important things we do as a Council is listen to you, our community. Your ideas, feedback, and lived experiences shape the decisions we make every day. That's why I’m excited to share that our draft Community Engagement Strategy 2025-2035 is now on public display. We want to hear your thoughts.
Mayoral Column - Your Invitation to a Season of Fun and Festivities

Published: 14/11/2025
Summer is just around the corner, and I’m excited to invite you to join us for Georges River Council’s Summer Series of Events. These events are a great way to enjoy the sunshine, celebrate our community, and have fun with family and friends.
Mayoral Column - Discover Georges River this Summer

Published: 10/11/2025
Summer is a wonderful time to get out and explore everything our city has to offer. From the water’s edge at Lugarno to the lively town centres of Hurstville and Kogarah, there’s plenty to see, taste, and enjoy in Georges River.
Mayoral Column - Council Moves to Improve Community Use of Sports Grounds

Published: 31/10/2025
Council has introduced a new Sports Ground Access Policy and a revised Grants and Donations Policy. These policies improve community access to Council sports grounds and facilities, with clear, consistent and fair rules for allocation and use.
Mayoral Column - Wrapping up Small Business Month in Georges River

Published: 24/10/2025
As Small Business Month comes to an end, I’m proud to look back on the activities hosted by Georges River Council in October.
Mayoral Column - Standing Together Against Gambling Harm: GambleAware Week 2025

Published: 17/10/2025
Georges River Council is proud to support GambleAware Week. Running from 20 to 26 October 2025, GambleAware Week is an annual campaign. It shines a light on the risks of gambling and the support available to those affected by gambling harm.
Mayoral Column - Congratulations to Finalists of Zonta Club of Botany Bay Young Women in Leadership Awards

Published: 10/10/2025
I would like to take a moment to congratulate the finalists of the Zonta Club of Botany Bay Young Women in Leadership Award. Celebrated at an inspiring event held on Tuesday 9 September at Sharkies Kareela.
Mayoral Column - Mental Health Month: Supporting Ourselves and Each Other

Published: 03/10/2025
October marks Mental Health Month. A time to reflect on the importance of mental wellbeing not just for ourselves, but for our families, neighbours, and the wider Georges River community.
Mayoral Column - Recognising Our Local Heroes: Nominations now open for the 2026 Australia Day Awards

Published: 26/09/2025
Every community has its champions. I am pleased to share that nominations for the 2026 Australia Day Awards are now open. This is your opportunity to nominate an inspiring person who makes a difference.
Mayoral Column - Celebrating 70 Years of the Oatley Flora and Fauna Conservation Society

Published: 19/09/2025
I wish to acknowledge and congratulate the Oatley Flora and Fauna Conservation Society (OFF) on 70 years of protecting the Georges River’s natural environment.
Mayoral Column - Get Moving for a Cause: Georges River Memory Walk & Jog 2025

Published: 12/09/2025
I’m proud to share that Georges River Council has been recognised by Dementia Australia as an organisation ‘Working Towards Dementia-Friendly’. This recognition reflects our commitment to making Georges River a welcoming and supportive place for residents living with dementia and their carers.
Mayoral Column - National Child Protection Week 2025

Published: 05/09/2025
I am pleased to share that Georges River Council will be participating in National Child Protection Week, an annual campaign led by the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN), running from Sunday 7 September to Saturday 13 September 2025.
Mayoral Column - Leading Mental Wellness for Lasting Impact in our community

Published: 29/08/2025
Last Friday, I attended the Business Chamber South Annual Gala Dinner with the inspiring theme Hope2Action – Leading Mental Wellness for Lasting Impact. The event brought together a diverse and passionate group of business leaders, residents, advocates, and changemakers and echoed our shared commitment to mental health advocacy and support across all corners of our community.
Mayoral Column - Scams Awareness Week 2025

Published: 22/08/2025
I’m pleased to share that Georges River Council will be supporting Scams Awareness Week 2025, led by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission through Scamwatch, from Monday 25 to Friday 29 August.
Mayoral Column - Recognition of Connells Point Rovers Football Club’s 60th Anniversary

Published: 15/08/2025
I wish to acknowledge and congratulate Connells Point Rovers Football Club on the celebration of their 60th Anniversary – a significant milestone for a club that has become a mainstay of grassroots sport in the Georges River area.
Mayoral Column - National Science Week in Georges River

Published: 08/08/2025
This National Science Week, from Saturday 9 to Sunday 17 August, Georges River Council is proud to support a range of exciting activities that make science fun, accessible and engaging for people of all ages.
Mayoral Column - Celebrating Local Excellence at the 2025 Georges River Local Business Awards

Published: 01/08/2025
This July, we celebrated the outstanding achievements of our local business community at the 2025 Georges River Local Business Awards.
Mayoral Column - Roll Up Your Sleeves for National Tree Day

Published: 25/07/2025
National Tree Day is a wonderful reminder of the positive difference we can make when we come together to care for our local environment. On Sunday 27 July 2025, I invite you to join us in celebrating National Tree Day.
Mayoral Column - Building a Better Georges River with the 2025–26 Budget

Published: 18/07/2025
I’m pleased to share that the 2025–26 Budget has been adopted, continuing our commitment to investing in infrastructure that keeps Georges River a great place to live, visit, and work.
Mayoral Column - Bringing Public Art to Georges River

Published: 11/07/2025
Public art has a special way of bringing people and places together. It adds character, sparks creativity, and creates spaces where we can feel proud to live, work and connect.
Mayoral Column - Celebrating NAIDOC Week 2025

Published: 04/07/2025
NAIDOC Week is a time for all of us to come together and honour the rich histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Mayoral Column - Refugee Week 2025: Celebrating Diversity and Community

Published: 27/06/2025
Refugee Week 2025 has come to a close, and I want to thank everyone who joined us in celebrating the strength, resilience, and rich contributions of refugees in our Georges River community.
Mayoral Column - Congratulations to Georges River Residents – 2025 King’s Birthday Honours

Published: 24/06/2025
Each year, the King’s Birthday Honours recognise and celebrate the contributions of remarkable Australians who have served their communities with distinction. It gives me great pleasure to acknowledge two Georges River residents whose outstanding service has been recognised in this year’s honours.
Mayoral Column - Join the Fun: Uncontained Arts Festival Returns to Georges River

Published: 20/06/2025
Mark your calendars, our much-loved festival Uncontained is returning to Kogarah this June! Now in its fifth year, Uncontained brings together immersive installations, interactive art experiences, captivating light displays, live music and delicious food.

Mayoral Column - Culture in Colour: Celebrates Young Creatives at the Mayoral Art Competition Exhibition

Mayoral Column - The importance of preserving our tree canopies

Mayoral Column - Celebrating a Welcoming Community for All

Mayoral Column - Standing All In Together: Recognising National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week 2026

Mayoral Column - National Road Safety Week 2026: Working Together for Safer Roads

Mayoral Column - Reflecting on the St George Candlelight Vigil 2026

Mayoral Column - Council’s Eurovision Live Broadcast Party: Bringing Our Diverse Community Together

Mayoral Column - ANZAC Day 2026: Remembering Service, Sacrifice and Community

Mayoral Column - Good Governance in the Georges River Community

Mayoral Column - GRYFest 2026: A Celebration of Youth, Creativity and Community

Mayoral Column - Coming Together This Easter and School Holiday Season

Mayoral Column - Introducing Hurstville’s Monthly Night Markets

Mayoral Column - Neighbour Day 2026: A Shared Commitment to a More Connected Community

Mayoral Column - United Together for Harmony Week 2026

Mayoral Column - Balancing the Scales: Reflecting on International Women’s Day

Mayoral Column - Celebrating Pride and Community this Mardi Gras

Mayoral Column - Register for Clean Up Australia Day 2026

Mayoral Column - An invitation to celebrate Year of The Horse as a community

Mayoral Column - Improving Community Participation in Council Meetings for 2026

Mayoral Column - Celebrating Service and Community Spirit with our 2026 Australia Day Awards

Mayoral Column - Australia Day 2026: Reflection and Connection

Mayoral Column - Looking Ahead Together in 2026

Mayoral Column - Celebrating the Holiday Season and Welcoming the New Year

Mayoral Column - Celebrating Ability and Inclusion in Georges River

Mayoral Column - Standing Together Against Domestic and Family Violence

Mayoral Column - Have Your Say on our Community Engagement Strategy

Mayoral Column - Your Invitation to a Season of Fun and Festivities

Mayoral Column - Discover Georges River this Summer

Mayoral Column - Council Moves to Improve Community Use of Sports Grounds

Mayoral Column - Wrapping up Small Business Month in Georges River

Mayoral Column - Standing Together Against Gambling Harm: GambleAware Week 2025

Mayoral Column - Congratulations to Finalists of Zonta Club of Botany Bay Young Women in Leadership Awards

Mayoral Column - Mental Health Month: Supporting Ourselves and Each Other

Mayoral Column - Recognising Our Local Heroes: Nominations now open for the 2026 Australia Day Awards

Mayoral Column - Celebrating 70 Years of the Oatley Flora and Fauna Conservation Society

Mayoral Column - Get Moving for a Cause: Georges River Memory Walk & Jog 2025

Mayoral Column - National Child Protection Week 2025

Mayoral Column - Leading Mental Wellness for Lasting Impact in our community

Mayoral Column - Scams Awareness Week 2025

Mayoral Column - Recognition of Connells Point Rovers Football Club’s 60th Anniversary

Mayoral Column - National Science Week in Georges River

Mayoral Column - Celebrating Local Excellence at the 2025 Georges River Local Business Awards

Mayoral Column - Roll Up Your Sleeves for National Tree Day

Mayoral Column - Building a Better Georges River with the 2025–26 Budget

Mayoral Column - Bringing Public Art to Georges River

Mayoral Column - Celebrating NAIDOC Week 2025

Mayoral Column - Refugee Week 2025: Celebrating Diversity and Community

Mayoral Column - Congratulations to Georges River Residents – 2025 King’s Birthday Honours

Mayoral Column - Join the Fun: Uncontained Arts Festival Returns to Georges River