Shellharbour City Council's latest quarterly review has revealed a city buzzing with activity, as thousands of residents took part in local events, programs and services between 1 January and 31 March 2026.
New figures from the Third Quarter Review of the Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2025-2026 show strong community participation across libraries, pools and events, reinforcing Shellharbour as a connected and active city.
Over the three-month period, Council's pools recorded more than 179,000 visits, while libraries welcomed over 60,000 visitors and loaned more than 171,000 items, highlighting the important role these spaces play in everyday community life.
Major community programs also drew strong attendance, including the Shellharbour Seniors Festival, which featured 42 events and attracted more than 5,500 participants.
Caption: Strong community participation at libraries and pools featured in Council's latest quarterly review. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said the results reflect the community's enthusiasm for coming together and making the most of local opportunities.
"It's fantastic to see so many people getting involved, whether that's visiting our libraries, enjoying our pools or attending community events," Mayor Homer said.
"These spaces and programs play an important role in supporting wellbeing, connection and a strong sense of community."
Council also continued to support participation at a grassroots level, distributing more than $53,000 in funding to local athletes, organisations and young leaders.
Mayor Homer said this investment helps create more opportunities for residents to take part and stay connected.
"We're proud to support initiatives that bring people together and help our community thrive," he said.
More highlights from the third quarter include:
Environment
- 89% of emissions actions on track
- More than 30,000 native plants delivered to key revegetation projects across multiple reserves
Economy
- More than 16,000 rounds of golf played at The Links Shell Cove
- 70% growth in junior memberships at The Links over the past 12 months
- More than 63,000 visitors to Visit Shellharbour's digital platforms
- Two unique activations held at Shellharbour Airport; the inaugural Airport Art display and "behind-the-scenes" Seniors Day tour
Leadership
- 203,000 visits to Council's website
- 86% of customer service calls answered within 180 seconds
- 100% of Customer Service Requests updated or completed within 14 working days
Key milestones were also reached on major infrastructure projects, including:
- Finalisation of the detailed design for the Tripoli Way Extension and progression to tendering phase for main construction
- Commencement of procurement negotiations for Shell Cove Sportsfield project
- Contract award and commencement of early works for the Yellow Rock Road Upgrade and Shellharbour Boathouse
- Stage 1 of the Bass Point Tourist Road Upgrade was completed
