The Cessnock Chamber of Commerce do an excellent job in recognising those who go above and beyond providing outstanding customer service in the Cessnock Local Government Area (LGA).

Congratulations to everyone nominated, in particular I would like to congratulate Cessnock City Council staff including Ainslie Rommell from the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre who was awarded runner-up in the community services section.

Last Saturday the Cessnock community came together for the Cancer Council’s Relay For Life at Baddeley Park to raise much-needed funds for research and patient support.

All of us have been touched by cancer, whether it be personally, a family member or friend, we all understand how devastating a diagnosis can be.

It was positive to see our community unite for this important event and thank you to everyone who volunteered.

Preparations are well underway for the fourth Australian Postie Bike Grand Prix to be held in Cessnock on Sunday, November 5.

This unique event continues to grow and is a fantastic opportunity to encourage visitors to our region but also gives local residents the chance to join the fun.

If you have not yet had the pleasure of attending the race, do not miss out on the fun and excitement again this year.

We live in a magnificent part of the world, we attract thousands of visitors every year and we are lucky enough to call this our home.

As a community we take pride in our home and it is disappointing to see graffiti sprawled across parks, fences or signage.

Graffiti Removal Day is coming up and is held on Sunday, October 29.

This year’s theme is “Love where we live” – this certainly resonates with us here in Cessnock.

We can all do our bit to be involved. If you can think of a site that needs attention nominate it at graffitiremovalday.org.au/. 

Cessnock City Council is currently taking part in Safe Work Month. Creating a healthy and safe environment is a key goal for council and is important for all local organisations.

Staff have had the opportunity to be involved in a whole range of activities including a presentation from Craig Hamilton, who is one of Australia’s leading mental health advocates after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2000. It was a reminder to all who attended that mental health is one of the biggest challenges our community faces and we need to continue to have meaningful conversations in our community.

Our roads team is out and about conducting work on Frame Drive, Abermain; Whitburn Road, Greta and Wollombi Road, Millfield. Improvement works are being finalised at Gordon Williams Memorial Cemetery and work has ramped up at the information bay at Jeffrey Park, Kearsley.