The first week of July is a time to celebrate and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.
Council has developed an exciting program of events for NAIDOC Week.
Bayside Council’s NAIDOC Week celebrations include a flag raising and smoking ceremony at Botany Town Hall as well as a Walk on Country in Wolli Creek with Elder Aunty Barb Simms where you can hear First Nations stories about the Cooks River.
The full program of events including our Storytime events and Library workshops can be found on Council’s website and I encourage you all to support and participate in one of the great activities we have on offer.
This morning, I had the privilege of witnessing the release of 200 seahorses into our bay.
The Gamay Rangers, in partnership with the Sydney Institute of Marine Science, have joined efforts as part of the broader Sydney 'White' Seahorse Recovery Conservation Project. Their collaborative work included breeding these seahorses and reintroducing them into the wild. Congratulations to everyone involved.
Here's hoping their efforts help wild seahorse populations to thrive.
Finally, I would like to remind everyone that Council elections will take place on Saturday 14 September and your Ward Boundaries may have changed, to find out which Ward you are in please check our interactive map at www.bayside.nsw.gov.au as these changes come into effect at the election.
Voting is compulsory for all eligible Australian citizens, so please check the electoral roll and update your details, if necessary, by visiting the NSW Electoral Commission’s website at elections.nsw.gov.au or calling 1300 135 736.
I look forward to continuing working with our diverse Bayside community to create a better, brighter future we can all share.
Councillor Bill Saravinovski
Mayor