From Griffith Council – Mayor John Dal Broi

I would like to start this column by thanking those in our community who volunteer their time in any capacity. As part of the Australia Day celebrations last week, we were able to formally recognise those who were nominated across several categories, however I know there are many more citizens who give their time for the benefit of our community.

On behalf of all Councillors, I would like to thank you for what you do – without volunteers, many organisations including Council, simply could not function. On 26 January it was announced at the Australia Day Awards Ceremony that Robert Cappello was named Griffith’s Citizen of the Year.

Robert is the president of Griffith Post School Options (GPSO), and is dedicated to improving the lives of local people with disabilities. He became president almost 10 years ago and under his guidance, the organisation has gone from strength to strength.

Relocating from the Binya Street site to Yoogali, GPSO is able to offer a range of facilities including a gym, indoor pool, futsal and indoor netball court, and respite, to cater for all types of disabilities. The team at GPSO teaches clients a range of new skills including trades and other skills to enter the workforce.

Robert is well deserving of this honour and is just one example of a volunteer working to improve the lives of our community members.

Each year I am able to acknowledge the work of community members through the Local Hero award. This year, I have recognised an extraordinary woman, Michelle Bordignon.

Michele’s accomplishments are too many to list. She received the Citizen of the Year Award in 2014 and in the years since, she has not slowed down!

Michelle has started a Facebook group titled ‘Griffith Helping Hands’, where she coordinates the donation of goods and en-sures they are given to those in need. In the last year alone, she has collected hampers, handbags, pantry items, furniture, white goods, clothing, toiletries and other essentials.

Michelle truly embodies what the Local Hero award stands for.

I would like to congratulate all our other winners and nominees. It is important to show those within our community gratitude for all they do to improve our lives. To those who prepared nominations, I thank you for taking the time to share your stories of these deserving locals.

I understand there has been some discussion regarding the date of Australia Day.

This day is about bringing together all cultures to celebrate what makes Australia great, and I would like to see it retained in the future. The marking of 26 January is an important date in Australia’s history and has changed over time: starting as a celebration for emancipated convicts and evolving into what is now a celebration of Australia that reflects the nation’s diverse people.

In Council news, I am sure you have seen some of the many projects we have underway. Olympic Street in particular is a hive of activity with the construction of the 50m pool, the new Community Centre and a new 21 space carpark. Construction will also commence soon on the Pump Track which will be located between the existing skate park and the Community Centre.

The 50m pool is also nearing completion, with the open day set down for 14 February. This will be a free event for everyone to enjoy, including a BBQ and entertainment. I am sure you will agree when I say the facility is looking incredible and I cannot wait to be able to open the doors for the community to enjoy the outdoor pool.

You can read all about it in our Projects Review within this publication, or visit griffith.nsw.gov.au Until next time,

Cr John Dal Broi,
Mayor

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• Local Council