Mayor's September Column in The Post

Last modified on 22 August 2022

It’s exciting that winter is officially behind us and we can now leap into Spring with the long-awaited Emerge Festival.

Starting on 1 September, the Emerge Festival runs over 39 days jam-packed with community events. These events include musical and theatre shows at The Concourse, workshops, family-friendly outdoor activities, a tropical themed pool party at the Willoughby Leisure Centre, art exhibitions and cultural events.

For the full program visit emergefestival.com.au.

With the coming of Spring, it’s also the case that more than 12 months have passed since the Council launched its Solar Power Bulk Buy program.

Thanks to this program, more than one solar power, battery or hybrid system is being installed per week across Willoughby. We have seen particularly good take-up of solar power installations in Chatswood, Roseville, Northbridge and Willoughby.

Flicking the switch to renewable energy is not only beneficial for the environment, it helps you cut your power bills over the long-term. One resident in a two-person household reported their bill dropped from as high as $500 down to $30 per quarter. Anyone interested in the Solar Power Bulk Buy program can visit Council’s website.

Work is separately progressing on several exciting projects across Willoughby City. The Northbridge Baths upgrade is underway with a Council investment of $205,000 and $150,000 from the NSW Government under the Places to Swim Grant Program. When complete, the Baths will be a more sustainable facility with new street furniture, shade sail ground cover and smart BBQ. Council will also replace the rubber tiles on the perimeter boardwalk with soft fall.

Next month also marks Biketober. Council will host a launch event at Artarmon Reserve with an opportunity for cyclists to get a bike tune-up and a coffee at the same time. Biketober is also an opportunity for residents new to cycling to discover the hidden bike tracks and new cycle paths in our area. Register for Biketober to enter the draw to win prizes.

Finally, local artists living with disability are encouraged to submit their masterpieces for the Connect, Collaborate Celebrate Art Competition until entries close at 5pm on 31 October. Artwork will be on exhibition at the Dougherty Community Centre, 7 Victor Street, Chatswood from 25 November to 15 December (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm).

To find out more about what’s happening in Willoughby, or to make an inquiry or service request, go to willoughby.nsw.gov.au

Cr Tanya Taylor

Mayor, Willoughby City Council