Community Meetings:

As a Council, we always want to give our residents a voice and a chance to have their say.

We will be holding community meetings across the Great Lakes this month.

The aim is to keep you up to date with our future plans, and also to get your views on the draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan for 2015-2016.

The General Manager will provide a six-monthly update on potential future projects, possible funding sources, Council’s financial position and achievement of ongoing efficiencies.

The Delivery Program and Operational Plan will be on public exhibition from 4 May – 5 June and submissions are welcome in that period.

Please attend one of the following meetings, this is your chance to view the Draft Plans and have your say before they are finalised.

Wednesday 6 May, 6pm at Stroud School of Arts, or Thursday 14 May, 6pm  at Tea Gardens Baptist Church, or Wednesday 20 May, 6pm at Bulahdelah School of Arts, or Thursday 21 May, 9am at the Forster Council Chambers.

Storm Damage:

I want to thank everyone who has assisted Great Lakes residents during the aftermath of the major storm that hit us last month.

We’ve all seen the shocking images of devastation in Stroud, Bulahdelah, Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest.

Council is working very hard to get things back to normal as quickly as possible.

The State Emergency Service, NSW Police and Ambulance Service have performed under difficult conditions and undertaken an enormous workload to assist us all.

In addition, there have also been stories of personal bravery and kindness from some of our residents and I want everyone who has helped in any way to know you have our gratitude.

Council continues to work on assessing damages and repairs to infrastructure and roads.

Coastal Zone Management Plans:

Has everyone had a look at our Coastal Zone Management plans which are on public exhibition until 15 May?

These are very important for the whole community and I urge you to take a look at them and comment if you would like to have a say on their final adoption.