August's Council meeting was a productive one, with several important decisions focused on essential services, financial sustainability and planning for the future.
One of the key decisions was progressing the next waste cell at the Kempsey Waste Management Centre. It may not be glamorous infrastructure, but it is essential. Planning now gives our community confidence that waste can continue to be managed well into the future.
Councillors also received a positive update on Council's financial performance, with a provisional surplus recorded for 2025-26. Council delivered a record $77 million in capital works across the shire during the year, reflecting significant investment in local infrastructure and services. While these are encouraging results, Council remains focused on identifying ongoing savings and strengthening long-term financial sustainability.
Another important outcome was the adoption of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026-2029. Developed through community consultation, the plan outlines practical actions to improve accessibility, awareness and inclusion across our shire. It also includes a stronger focus on neurodiversity and making Council information easier for everyone to access and understand.
Councillors also considered the Crescent Head Sporting Complex Master Plan, with a decision deferred for further consideration. There has been discussion about the approximately $13 million of projects identified within the plan, so it is important to understand that a master plan is not a commitment to immediately spend that amount. Instead, it provides a long-term vision, identifies future opportunities and ensures projects are properly scoped and costed should funding opportunities arise.
There was much more discussed at the meeting, and I encourage residents to read the draft minutes on Council's website.
Away from the Council chamber, I was excited to help announce the new Riverside Rhythms Festival, coming to Riverside Park in Kempsey on Saturday 5 September.
The festival will celebrate our connection to the Macleay River with live music, markets, food vendors, community performances, public art, a lantern float and the return of the River Regatta. I'm particularly excited that Mid North Coast artist Tasman Keith will headline the event.
Events like Riverside Rhythms bring people together, support local businesses and celebrate what makes the Macleay such a special place to live, work and visit. I hope to see many of you there. It promises to be a wonderful celebration of our community.
