From Hilltops Council – Marg Roles

It Always Seems to Be Friday

By the time most read this column, it will be Friday again; one week finished – another about to start. They seem to be flying by as our world resumes many of the activities that have been on hold for so long. One of these was the Local Government NSW Conference in Sydney which the General Manager, Anthony O’Reilly, Deputy Mayor, Alison and myself attended on behalf of Hilltops.

It was a great time to network with other Local Government Areas (LGAs); to learn from each other and share achievements and concerns. Hilltops put forward three motions. The main one, advocating ‘for increased funding for amalgamated councils to counteract initial underfunding to ensure ongoing financial security’, was endorsed unanimously. During the conference the floods in northern NSW were gaining momentum and some Councillors were unable to return home either because of access or because their homes were flooded.

I know our thoughts are with all those who are facing the mammoth task of cleaning up and rebuilding after such an extreme weather event. It is sobering to realise that this might be the pattern for the future, as climate change increasingly becomes our new reality. We must consider both mitigation of and adaptation to, a changing climate. As a community, we must make sure that our Hilltops is adaptable and continues to be a happy, healthy and stable place to live.

During a recent meeting with Murrumbidgee Health, two health messages were clearly flagged: protect yourself from the present mosquito invasion and have your flu shot before winter.

Other community events that regained momentum were the Boorowa and Koorawatha Shows. It was heart-warming to see locals working together and enjoying their achievements. It was also a very difficult task to judge Koorawatha show girl and boy winners – lollies all round made up for any faux pas on the part of the judge.

Make sure you take part in Hilltops Off the Beaten Track Art & Cultural Trail, 9-23 March 2022. This is an inclusive celebration of the creative life of Hilltops. Over the two weeks there is something for everybody including open artists’ studios, a special 2-week movie program, ‘Lap the Map’ 5 km walk and the Harden Murrumburrah Truck and Tractor Show. For more information grab a flier, contact the visitor information centre or visit https://www.southerntablelandsarts.com.au.

It will be Friday again before we know it!

Mayor Margaret Roles

• Topics:

• Local Council
• Community