From Hilltops Council – Brian Ingram

Last week was NAIDOC Week with the theme Heal Country. Healing Country means embracing First Nation’s cultural knowledge and understanding of Country as part of Australia's national heritage. It was disappointing that our local celebrations had to be postponed due to the current COVID-19 situation.

I am pleased to see progress on several infrastructure projects across Hilltops. A lot of hard work has gone in behind the scenes to get these projects off the ground, so it is very rewarding to see them finally coming to fruition.

Construction of the new water main along Milvale Rd, Wickham Lane, and Old Temora Rd is approximately 75% complete. The new pipeline has been successfully installed and the engaged contractor is currently in the process of undertaking property connections to the new water main. Pending any further inclement weather or delays, all works are scheduled to be completed by the end of July 2021.

The first stage of road works continues along Milvale Road, between Chillingworks Road and Penrose Bridge (near Rockdale Road) in Young. Council staff are constructing stormwater drainage in Old Temora Road associated with the B double uncouple/amenities building bay. This is also in preparation of a commercial water fast-fill unit that will be located adjacent to the bay for use primarily by local water carters and will replace the current hydrant point used on the Olympic Highway adjacent to the Hilltops Retreat Motor Inn.

Works have been completed on the Wombat Street Roundabout Construction and was opened to traffic earlier this week. Some minor pedestrian path works are scheduled for completion in the next two weeks, pending weather.

The old play equipment has been removed from Tresillian Park in Young and earthworks to prepare for the installation of an inclusive playground has commenced. The new play equipment will be delivered to site once the preparation work has been completed. The project is expected to be completed in September 2021.

The four bridges project (Wambanumba, Spring Creek, Hannons and Cudgell Creek) is progressing well despite the COVID issues in Sydney. Council’s contractor has secured local staff to work on the project. Work on Wambanumba bridge and Hannons bridge commenced last week with site establishment. At Wambanumba bridge the railings are being taken down, clearing and grubbing and demolition of the existing bridge is set to commence in mid-July.

The Draft Waste Management and Resource Recovery Strategy is on public exhibition until Thursday 22 July. The document is available to view on Council’s website and all submissions are welcome.

The Local Government Election is fast approaching. Again, I encourage anyone considering candidacy who may want to know a little more about what is involved to reach out to myself, General Manager Anthony O’Reilly, or any current Councillor for a chat.

The current COVID-19 situation is evolving rapidly. We are seeing high cases numbers in greater Sydney and have now had a confirmed case much closer to home in Goulburn. Together we must do everything we can to keep ourselves and our community safe. Please adhere to restrictions and public health orders, wear a mask, limit unnecessary travel, maintain social distancing and strict hygiene measures. If you have even the slightest of symptoms please get tested.

__– Mayor Brian Ingram __

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• Local Council