From Hilltops Council – Margaret Roles

As 2022 draws to a close, it is good for us to reflect on the past year and to celebrate our achievements during a challenging 12 months.

Our beautiful Hilltops has demonstrated strength and resilience as we have navigated new and changing circumstances. The continuing COVID situation and unprecedented weather have been difficult for us all.

The toll on our local government area, as a result of extreme climate events, has been enormous. I am very proud of the way in which Hilltops staff – at all levels – are working tirelessly to support our extensive road network, under very difficult circumstances.

Flooding has affected many and I acknowledge the continued challenges faced by our community, especially the agricultural sector, this season. Despite these natural adversities, we have continued to thrive and grow as the Hilltops Local Government Area.

Council delivered several outstanding projects that have resulted in new and improved infrastructure and facilities with additional works to be completed in 2023. We have also progressed plans for the continued improvement of Council’s financial position which will ensure the ongoing financial sustainability of Hilltops.

As a rural area, we are gaining a reputation as a festival hub with our three major events: the Boorowa Irish Woolfest, Harden Kite Festival and Young Cherry Festival gaining national coverage. Visitors joined with locals to relax, have fun, and enjoy the celebrations.

An added highlight of the Cherry Festival was the visit by Her Excellency, the Honourable Margaret Beasley, Governor of NSW, who not only opened the Festival but graciously led the parade in the vice-regal car. She expressed her gratitude to the Hilltops community for the ‘warmth’ shown to her during her visit and left with ‘a smile on her face’.

A community’s strength lies in the people and I thank everyone who has been involved in protecting, supporting, and nourishing life in our Hilltops region.

May you find time to relax over the holiday break and be fully replenished to enjoy taking part in and contributing to, the social capital and depth of life in Hilltops next year. Be safe, be kind and with me, look forward to 2023 with optimism. On behalf of Council staff and my fellow Councillors, I wish everyone a joyous Christmas and a happy New Year.

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