Over the last 24 hours the Central Highlands has witnessed two outstanding Community events.

Like many people in Emerald, the weekend was a procession of activity from participating in or supporting the Mud Run, through to the Eat Street Markets at Pioneer Park racecourse on Saturday evening.

The amazing atmosphere of expectation walking through the streets with hundreds of others to the markets and then on to other restaurants and food outlets showed that our communities do have an incredible “appetite” for family friendly, food and entertainment events, and that many of our sporting venues are ideally suited for these activities as an alternative to their traditional use.

The organisers of both events are to be congratulated on the professional and innovative ways that they captured community interest and the positive feedback provided will encourage all of us to continue to support and participate.

And, there are strong messages in the level of interest we showed for the wider community. As residents we are looking for affordable, interesting events in our secure open spaces and our climate from Autumn to Spring lends itself ideally. It also highlights the absolute necessity of Council to provide strong strategic and logistical support to Community events large or small, the need to be a “good partner’ in whatever assistance is required and show the empathy that Communities expect.

As an active engaged community supporter I will ensure that as Mayor of our Council we will increase our awareness and participation in kind and with financial support to community events and to organisations that support diversity and participation. And we will work with sports and recreation organisations across the region to encourage greater use of their facilities. Many clubs and organisations are losing members and volunteers and shared usage and alternatives have to be found to sustain these facilities.

The weekend’s wonderful events answer the questions that have been asked about what makes our region a great place to live and raise a family, and with your support I will make sure that this part of our liveability will be protected and grown.