Whether you have an interest in culture, music, fitness, learning, history or any other special interest there will be something for you.

The Festival will run from February 12 to 26 and the theme this year is, 'Celebrating positive ageing for 50+'.

As all of us grow older, we must be grateful and maintain a positivity despite some of the new challenges that come with growing older. We can appreciate our experiences and also continue to try new things no matter how old we get.

Programs can be picked up at council's customer service centre, Cessnock and Kurri Kurri Libraries and participating venues. The program is also available online at www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/SeniorsFestival.

Our Australia Day 2020 celebrations kick off on Friday at the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre (CPAC) with a screening of Muriel's Wedding.

The official celebrations including the Australia Day awards and citizenship ceremony will occur on Australia Day from 10am. Make sure you arrive early to CPAC if you would like a seat.

Other activities include the Mayor's Cup Twenty20 cricket match at East End Oval, and Cessnock and Branxton Pools will have free entry between 10am and 4pm.

For more information visit www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/council/news/ausday2020.

After listening to residents, the decision has been made to give everyone more time to give feedback on the Draft Cessnock Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS).

The LSPS is now on exhibition until February 28. Many residents have been extremely stressed due to the bushfires in our area. This will ensure all residents have been given enough time to have their say.

The decision has also been made to remove the Dwelling Entitlement from consideration as part of the LSPS. Dwelling Entitlement will be considered separately at a later date allowing the community to provide feedback. Additional community consultation will be undertaken on this section of the plan.

Find out more at cessnock.nsw.gov.au/community/exhibition/CessnockLSPS2036.