Christmas Message from the Mayor 2024

Published on 19 December 2024

As we navigate our way through this really busy time of year, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the many demands on our time. However, the flip side is the opportunity to connect, collaborate and engage in meaningful experiences. 

This time of year brings many end-of-year activities, celebrations and acknowledgements that highlight a very hectic, challenging, but overall successful 2024.  

One particular challenge was the recent storm in Coleambally that caused significant havoc and very visible damage. We thank the Emergency Services and Essential Energy personnel who worked diligently to address the damage to essential services and property.  I am so very proud of the way the Murrumbidgee Council workforce and the community of Coleambally mobilised, working immediately and effectively. This was a whole-of-community response - from the very young and very able to those who have quietly supported in many different ways, and we thank you. 

My sincere thanks to the Lions Club of Coleambally who, with their Gala Night hijacked, stepped up to the plate and proceeded to feed and water the community and clean-up crews working in hot and humid conditions. Thanks, also, to Coleambally Irrigation who made equipment and personnel part of the clean-up workforce. 

While it is always a risk to single out people, I would like to acknowledge Justin Williams and Trevor Bright who led the emergency response.  The clean-up is ongoing and the visible damage does impact our amenity but, as small communities do, we will be working hard to recover.  

Recently, I have attended 3 RAMJO meetings covering finance, water and digital connectivity. While we've managed to bring key influencers to the table in the water and digital connectivity sectors, our advocacy remains a challenging journey that will demand continued perseverance.

In November, councillors attended a tour of the new Honestly Rice Mill in Jerilderie. Now operational, the shed is nearing completion with the assembly of the mill to follow.  The production of “Nice Rice” is happening now and is on the shelves.   

Plans for Australia Day celebrations across the council area are well in hand and we are all looking forward to these special events in our towns. You can find out more about the great range of events on our website and Facebook page. 

Recognition of achievers on Australia Day is always a pleasure and contributes to the rich fabric of who we are, where we live and how we work together for the greater good. It’s not too late to nominate a local high achiever in the Coleambally and Darlington Point awards – you have until Tuesday 7 January 2025. 

Our pools in Coleambally, Darlington Point, and Jerilderie are free again this year, so I encourage you to take advantage of them this summer. We will be hosting free pool parties throughout January, thanks to funding from the NSW Government. For more details, visit our website or check out the individual pool Facebook pages.

Make sure you grab a copy of the recently launched Murrumbidgee Trails Visitor Guide.  This is an excellent product that not only showcases the 4 Councils of Leeton, Narrandera, Lockhart and Murrumbidgee, but clearly identifies and values our neighbouring councils and the importance of collaboration in this space. It was a pleasure to attend this launch.

Also in my schedule have been presentation nights, school graduation masses and preschool graduations across the council area. Thank you to the other councillors who attended some on my behalf. These occasions are true celebrations for the students, the teachers and the parents. Congratulations to all involved on a very memorable year. 

As 2024 draws to a close, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the entire council community for your engagement, support and dedication throughout the year. It’s your involvement that makes all of our efforts possible and truly strengthens the spirit of our council area. I am grateful to everyone who has contributed to the success of our projects and initiatives and I look forward to continuing our work in 2025.

Thank you also the councillors for their commitment to Murrumbidgee Council during the year, with particular mention to Councillor Rob Black for his support as Deputy Mayor.  I would also like to thank our staff, led by General Manager John Scarce, for their continued commitment to delivering services and helping make our communities the best they can be.   

As we head into the festive season, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. May this time bring you joy, rest and the chance to enjoy time with family and friends. 

Ruth McRae OAM
Mayor