Kempsey Shire Council convened for its August meeting, addressing key areas of essential service management, financial health, and future planning. Significant decisions included the advancement of the next waste cell at the Kempsey Waste Management Centre, a critical infrastructure project aimed at ensuring long-term waste disposal capacity for the community. This proactive planning provides assurance for future waste management needs.
Financial Performance and Capital Investment
Council received a positive financial report for the 2025-26 fiscal year, indicating a provisional surplus. This follows a period of substantial investment, with the council delivering a record $77 million in capital works across the shire. These works represent a significant commitment to enhancing local infrastructure and public services. Despite these encouraging financial outcomes, the council remains committed to identifying ongoing efficiencies and reinforcing its long-term financial sustainability.
Disability Inclusion Action Plan Adopted
A key resolution from the meeting was the adoption of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan for 2026-2029. This plan, developed through extensive community consultation, outlines a series of practical strategies designed to improve accessibility, foster greater awareness, and promote inclusivity throughout the shire. A notable emphasis within the plan is placed on neurodiversity, alongside efforts to make council information more accessible and understandable for all residents.
Crescent Head Sporting Complex Master Plan Under Review
The Crescent Head Sporting Complex Master Plan was also a subject of discussion. While a decision on the plan was deferred for further deliberation, it’s important to clarify the scope of the approximately $13 million in projects identified. A master plan serves as a long-term vision and identifies potential future opportunities, rather than representing an immediate commitment to expenditure. It ensures that proposed projects are thoroughly scoped and costed, positioning them for potential funding as opportunities arise.
Upcoming Riverside Rhythms Festival
Beyond council deliberations, an exciting new community event, the Riverside Rhythms Festival, was announced. Scheduled for Saturday, September 5, at Riverside Park in Kempsey, the festival aims to celebrate the region’s connection to the Macleay River. The event will feature a diverse program including live music, market stalls, food vendors, community performances, public art installations, a lantern float, and the revival of the River Regatta.
Mid North Coast artist Tasman Keith is set to headline the festival, adding significant appeal to the lineup. Events like Riverside Rhythms are vital for fostering community cohesion, providing support for local businesses, and highlighting the unique character of the Macleay Valley as a place to live, work, and visit. Organizers anticipate a vibrant celebration of the local community, drawing residents and visitors alike to enjoy the riverside setting and the array of planned activities.
Community Engagement and Future Outlook
The August council meeting underscored a commitment to robust community engagement, evident in the development of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan. Residents are encouraged to review the draft minutes of the meeting, available on the council’s official website, for a comprehensive understanding of all discussions and decisions. The proactive approach to infrastructure, financial management, and social inclusion reflects a strategic vision for the shire’s development and the well-being of its residents.
The introduction of the Riverside Rhythms Festival further demonstrates the council’s and community’s dedication to celebrating local culture and fostering economic activity through engaging events. By bringing people together in shared experiences, such as the festival and through the ongoing work on essential services and infrastructure, Kempsey Shire Council aims to enhance the quality of life for all its constituents. The successful delivery of capital works and the focus on long-term financial prudence position the shire for continued growth and stability.
