Positive Outcomes For The Hilltops Community

Following the State Election over the weekend I would like to extend my congratulations to Steph Cooke, Member for Cootamundra and to my fellow Councillor Wendy Tuckerman, Member for Goulburn. I look forward to working with them both to achieve positive outcomes for the Hilltops community.

I accepted an invitation to visit the Young Mosque on Saturday to pay respects to the lives that were lost in the recent Christchurch tragedy. We met with heavy hearts in a time of both disbelief and great sadness. We cannot attempt to make sense of this horrible act of violence, but I can assure you that the man responsible does not represent the views of Australians and in no way represents Australian values or the values of our community. As a result of this tragedy we must continue to work together to promote inclusion, belonging, compassion, tolerance and community spirit. We must stand against hatred, extremism and violence. United as a community I ask that we support each other and stand up against hate and violence. We cannot and will not allow division because we ALL belong.

This weekend we are holding the Lambing Flat Chinese Festival in Young. This Festival is a multicultural celebration, which brings together elements of the region's early gold rush days when Chinese miners came to the diggings to try their luck. The Festival celebrates the contribution of the Chinese to Australia. You will find daytime and evening acrobatic Chinese lion and dragon dancing displays, Chinese food stalls, a Sunset Lantern Parade, Eat Street, Craft and Artisan Markets, Music, Art and a range of activities. I am also excited to announce that just in time for the Festival, we have launched our Hilltops Region Chinese Visitor Guide.

Last week, Council received a generous donation from local artist Glen Preece who is relocating to Tasmania. The painting titled ‘Kangaroo March’ was a finalist in the 2015 Gallipoli Art Prize. Thank you to Glen Preece for this special gift.

The next Village Workshop is being held at the Reids Flat Hall on Wednesday 10 April from 6pm. These workshops provide an opportunity for residents to meet with Councillors and senior staff to discuss Council related issues.