It’s a joy to see how proud schools and individual students are of their academic, sporting and cultural achievements, and I am grateful to be able to share in those moments and present awards.

I see many young people on stage who I know will be future leaders in our community. The poise and confidence with which they carry themselves is inspiring to see.

It’s pleasing to watch the way school communities come together to celebrate their achievements, their milestones, and their school spirit.

It reminds us of what is important – getting along, doing the best you can, celebrating the highs, and supporting each other in the lows.

In my own family, our elder daughter has finished school, and like many thousands of students, she is waiting for HSC results to be released next week to see what the future holds.

I want to take this opportunity to congratulate all the students in our community on their work this year, especially our school leavers, and wish them all a happy and safe holiday.

I am pleased to announce that Kurri Kurri Early Learning Centre has been successful in winning a Stronger Communities Grant from the Federal Government.

The centre will be granted $8717, which is half of the cost of installing new vinyl floors in their two toddler classrooms.

It’s important children in all communities have access to good quality childcare in a clean and safe environment, even more so in low socio-economic areas.

I commend Cessnock City Council on the launch of its Youth First Employment Toolkit, aimed at delivering mentoring, core skills training, personal development and employment opportunities for young people.

Mayor Bob Pynsent and economic development manager Jane Holdsworth have been the driving force behind this important initiative to nurture and retain a skilled workforce in our area.

It may be a cliché, but our young people are our future, and securing them meaningful work must be a priority for us all.