It feels like another year has slipped by far too quickly. So I am really looking forward to stopping and savouring every single minute we have with our family and friends over this holiday break.
I think it is easy to get caught up in how hectic the year has been in the lead up to Christmas but I will making a big effort to really enjoy the precious time we all have together and look back over the many, many things we have achieved in the year.
Here at Council we have commenced and finalised several major projects, maintained and improved a lot of infrastructure and continued to drive the culture of growth and development we are well known for here at Forbes Shire Council.
From a community perspective, it has been a tough year, we have had some tragic losses and we have all rallied to support each other, not overcoming them but getting through these times together.
It was pleasing to see our Council remain largely the same in the September election. The minimal change reflecting the community’s confidence in our leadership and direction we are taking the Council in.
Politically, it has been a busy year of advocating and working with the State and Federal Governments and as always making sure Forbes and regional LGAs have been represented and heard.
I am pleased to say we have further cemented our working relationships with our local members and a number of ministers we have welcomed to Forbes throughout the year.
We have continued to work with developers to maintain momentum and investment in our community, I am excited about the new opportunities for the Forbes community next year and beyond.
I wish all of our community and safe and happy holiday – we hope you all have an amazing Christmas and enjoy a well earned break. It is an opportunity to regroup and rest before we face another busy and achievement filled 2025.
God Bless – looking forward to working with and for you all in 2025.
Phyllis Miller OAM
Forbes Mayor