On behalf of the councillors and staff of the Yarriambiack Shire I wish to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and healthy 2017.
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While most of us enjoyed the festive season relaxing with family and friends there were a few in our community who missed out on a lot of these activities. The bountiful harvest has spilled over well into January, causing farming families to curtail much of their celebrations. Also those who work for our essential services such as the hospital, police, ambulance, CFA and SES were restricted in what they could do if they were rostered for duty.
The two weeks prior to Christmas allowed me to engage in a variety of activities as mayor of the shire.
On December 14 at the shire office I conducted an Australian citizenship ceremony for Christine Gumpala. Christine took her pledge in front of her friends and work colleagues from Woodbine and Rural Northwest Health.
That evening, together with Cr Corinne Heintz and Cr Tom Hamilton, I had the pleasure of attending the annual presentation evening at Murtoa College. It was an extensive and well-conducted program that covered all aspects of school life.
The next night Hopetoun College held their presentation night. Another enjoyable evening that celebrated the students’ successes. Along with Cr Helen Ballentine, Cr Shane Roberts and CEO Ray Campling, it was a pleasure to help present the annual awards.
On December 20, CEO Ray Campling and I hosted a civic reception to acknowledge the achievements of the Warrack Warriors Tri State Games athletes. The Warriors fielded three teams in the 38 team competition and the athletes were awarded 40 medals, including 17 gold. All competitors and the staff members who assisted them were presented with participation certificates.
Our council will formally reconvene on January 25. The following day will see us participate in Australia Day activities. I will have the privilege of presenting Yarriambiack Shire’s Citizen, Young Citizen and Community Event awards on behalf of the National Australia Day Council. This year Australia Day at Warracknabeal will have special significance, as it will kick-off the town’s sesquicentenary celebrations that will culminate on the Queen’s Birthday weekend in June.