As my two-year Mayoral term comes to an end, I am extremely proud that as a Council we have achieved many great outcomes for our community despite many challenges.
This time last year, out-of-control bushfires were burning in NSW. These blazes started well ahead of the official fire season and were a harbinger of the devastating conditions and extreme heat events that were to come.
If the fires were well ahead of time, so was Penrith Council’s thinking. Our sold-out Cooling the City Masterclass provided a forum for national and international experts to share ideas on how government and industry can improve our built environment.
We have continued to demonstrate our commitment to plan with not for our community by consulting with the community on our plans to enhance Regatta Park and create a landmark City Park, the Local Strategic Planning Statement, Floodplain Management Plans and Council’s Youth Action Plan.
This year, in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have also been focused on grass roots advocacy. Working with local businesses and community organisations, our aim is to protect our economy and social structures through the formation of two taskforces to accelerate a sustainable post-pandemic recovery.
And as I finish, I would like to congratulate the Panthers on their stunning 2020 NRL season. This season has all the hallmarks of their 1991 and 2003 seasons where they too were awarded the minor premiership and then went on to win the premiership. Their spirit has captured the hearts of Penrith in a challenging year by giving our community hope.
Go the Panthers!
